Maryland Madness set for October 17th at XFINITY Center

Maryland's men's and women's basketball teams will begin their season on October 17th with a "Magic Maryland Madness" event at the XFINITY Center.

The following is from a press release from the University of Maryland Athletic Department about the event:

Maryland Madness will be the first chance for fans to get a glimpse of the 2015-16 Maryland men's and women's basketball teams, in addition to the performances by magician JP Wilson and high-flying Gymkana.

Doors will open at 4 p.m. with autographs beginning at 4:30 p.m.

Admission to the evening's activities is free (no ticket required) and seating is first-come, first-serve.

The idea of Maryland Madness, which is celebrated in some fashion by teams all across the country, actually originated on the campus of the University of Maryland. Then-Maryland men's basketball coach Lefty Driesell invited fans to an open practice on Oct. 15, 1971, to celebrate the beginning of the season, calling the event "Midnight Madness."

For 2015-16 men's basketball ticket information, please click here. For women's basketball, please click here.

RUN OF SHOW

• Doors open at 4 PM

• Autograph Session at 4:30 PM

• Main Show at 6 PM

• Women's Basketball Team Introductions at 6:10 PM

• Men's Basketball Team Introductions at 6:30 PM"

Along with getting to see two of the nation's top teams in action, the event will also be the first opportunity for many to see the new court design at the XFINITY Center.