Silence.
Of all words that have been used to describe the BU Zoo — a nickname for Binghamton’s rowdy student section — silent never really comes to mind.
But when Duane James crashed to the floor in agony two weeks ago on Senior Day, the crowd’s silence demonstrated what being a Zoo member is all about.
Hoping and praying for James’ well-being, the Zoo nervously applauded when Duane was taken off in a gurney — and then took action.
An inspired mix of anger, anxiousness and pride overcame the student section, and for a moment, the atmosphere was electric.
When a UMBC player stepped to the line with a chance to tie the game, the entire arena was shaking. Following an appropriate chant of “stand-up tow-nies,” the entire crowd united to watch the player toss up a memorable airball. Seconds later, overcome with emotion, the Bearcats walked off victorious.
(Fortunately, Duane James is now OK, and is expected to play against Maine Saturday.)
Knowing now that James is all right, the electricity that circulated around the Events Center that night is a pretty fair comparison to what players and fans should expect during the America East tournament.
The BU Zoo that energized the Bearcats last March had a guarded sense of pessimism, with the golden road paved for Vermont from the beginning. But this year, every team comes in with a real chance.
As great as it is for the teams involved, I urge you, the students of Binghamton, to recognize how uniquely incredible this experience can be for you.
I can’t stress this enough: head out and get some body paint, make a “Seabass for MVP” sign, and every time Andre hits a free throw, scream out, “Ya Heard?!” When the pep band director holds up the “Hey Song” sign, cheer loudly, and when they reach the chorus, stand up and scream “You suck!”
When Steve the male cheerleader lifts up Cara or Liz, point back and smile at her, and scream for him. When Steve Proctor hits a lay-up and tells you to “get up,” you “get up.” When Steve the hot dog vendor hands you a couple extra mustard packets, smile and say thank you. (OK, there might not actually be a Steve the hot dog vendor, but good articles are written in threes.)
PLEASE wear a green shirt. Green body paint (or a green bikini) is an acceptable substitute, but expect to be booed if you come down in your red polo shirt. It’s playoff time, guys.
Our basketball games are more than just a game. At Binghamton University, the student section has become more than a cheering section; it’s become a fraternity. A couple weeks ago, some inebriated guy had “B” painted on his chest — I now regret not being the ‘U’. These are opportunities that once you graduate from college, you’ll never get again.
On a politically correct note, I would encourage you to keep vulgarity out of your chants. “F— the ref” isn’t really appropriate (unless he flips you off first). Even “bull****” is pushing it (but sometimes you’ve got to let them know when they missed one.) Even better, try more pro-BU chants; “M-V-P” for Sebastian Hermenier just has such a nice ring to it.
Remember, when deciding whether or not you want to sleep in Saturday, that this is it. Every game, every practice, every single drill these guys have done is working towards this weekend’s games. Come and cheer like there’s no tomorrow, because come playoff time, tomorrow might mean silence.
*For an exclusive “Creed of a BU Zoo-er” feature, check out www.bupipedream.com*