October 26, 2001
A record crowd of more than 700 enjoyed a free breakfast on Friday morning at Reed Arena as part of "Project: Full House," a community-wide effort to increase attendance at Texas A&M basketball games. Organizers said it was the largest-ever breakfast event in the Brazos Valley.
Dr. Len Berry, chairman of the event, welcomed the crowd and introduced a marketing video about Aggie basketball that featured basketball legend Julius Erving. A&M Athletics Director Wally Groff and Head Basketball Coach Melvin Watkins also addressed the crowd.
"I was very impressed at the turnout that we had for what we consider the tipoff to our season," Watkins said. "There was a great buzz in the crowd and our players felt it, too."
After the festivities, guests were able to purchase season tickets. Assistant Ticket Manager Sean Conner said the event produced more than 100 new season ticket holders.
"It was great to see so many people come out and support our team with such enthusiasm," said Andy Leatherman, the Aggies' lone senior. "I know all the players appreciated them being there. If we can continue to get people to buy into what we are trying to do, we are headed in the right direction."
The Aggies open the 2001-02 season with an exhibition game against Team ezybonds on Nov. 8 at Reed Arena, followed by a final home exhibition game against the EA Sports All-Stars on Nov. 14. The regular season opens against George Washington on Nov. 19 at Reed Arena.