Howard University kicked off its 100th Homecoming week on Monday night with a jam-packed spirit rally of pride and school spirit, which peaked with an impromptu set by Skilla Baby.

“Make some noise for yourselves!” the Detroit rapper urged the audience. “I heard Howard University was the best university. I’m proud of ya’ll for doing something a lot of people can’t do.”

The Bison Madness spirit rally is produced in collaboration between Bison Athletics and the Jordan Brand. Students sent energy surging through the venue amid throbbing music, flashing lights, and performances by the Showtime Marching Band, Bisonnettes, Flashy Flags, and the Oh La La dancers.

 “Just entering the building, you could feel the spirit radiating off the gym,” said freshman Kajanea Banks, who attended the event with classmate Darnese Joyner who is studying psychology. “It was a hype event tonight.”

Bison Madness marks the start of the basketball season, aimed at building excitement among students for the games ahead of the men’s opener against No. 1 Kansas on Monday, November 4 and the women’s kickoff against Florida A&M the same day in Tallahassee, Fla. The event introduced players on both basketball teams, as players step on the court to cheers and chants from Howard staff and students. 

The spirit rally also featured a student half-court basketball game and a 3-point contest with players from the teams serving as coaches.

“I was really excited about Bison Madness,” said Jadyn Fife, a freshman studying acting from Richmond, Va. “Howard brings a lot of energy, especially toward the women’s basketball team.” Fife said she was excited for Homecoming week, especially the collective celebration between alumni and students. “It’s going to be a real hype week,” she said.

Jamar Phillips, a freshman from South Jersey studying physics, reflected on the atmosphere in Burr Gynamsium: “The spirit is always great here. We have one of the biggest spirits out of all the HBCUs.”

With events like Yardfest, Fashion Show, and Greek Step Show ahead, students said the homecoming festivities promise to be unforgettable.