Decatur’s basketball program tipped off the season Wednesday, Nov. 9 during the first-ever, public Blue & Gold game.

The game pitted half of the men’s varsity team against the other half in a friendly home-court atmosphere.

In previous seasons, Decatur held separate pre-season community nights and closed Blue & Gold games. This year’s Blue & Gold game is the first time that the two events have been combined, according to head coach Bill Roberts.

“It was mainly to get the nerves out, to get in the flow,” Roberts said.

Senior T.J Myrick agreed that the friendly competition provided the team with a fun way to open the season.

“It was a way to get our first-game jitters out and let all of the people of Decatur see everyone show their talent,” Myrick said.

Pre-game activities helped create a festive mood, highlighted by senior Terrill Hall’s dunk over freshman Danny Brown to win the dunk contest.

“With the three point contest, the dunk contest, and even the game, the crowd was very energetic,” Myrick said.

However, Roberts was slightly disappointed with the low attendance at the only free game of the season.

“If they’re not going to come to something that’s free to support the team, then why should we discount the regular season,” Roberts said.

After the preseason showcase, Myrick and Roberts are eager to start playing regular season games.

“I think that as the season goes on, we’ll get better and better, but for now it’s time to tip it off, it’s time to get started, and I think everybody’s excited about that,” Roberts said.

UPDATE: The boys team beat Johns Creek 70-61 in their opening exhibition game on Thursday, Nov. 10.

Click here to access the boys and girls basketball schedule.