Marketers hype basketball
By Allison McNearney | November 7, 2005Both the University and the National Collegiate Athletics Association are hoping innovative marketing strategies will score increased enthusiasm for the upcoming basketball season. Although not a direct response to the NCAA's efforts to bring more enthusiasm to college basketball, the University's athletic program is unveiling a new marketing scheme that revolves around the slogan "Last Ball in U-Hall" and focuses on honoring the closing of University Hall prior to the opening of the John Paul Jones arena next season. The marketing program includes putting up light-pole banners, T-shirt giveaways to the first 1,000 people at the first several games and a series of other events and giveaways. Furthermore, because of the push last season for a student spirit group at basketball games, the Hoo Crew -- formed with the hopes of achieving the intensity and reputation of Wake Forest's Screamin' Demons --- will have its own section.
