A different backdrop, familiar Memphis energy: basketball, cheerleaders and fans share the spotlight.

Memphis basketball took its show outdoors on Tuesday, Oct. 13, turning a blue court surrounded by trees and spectators into a stage for Tigers spirit. The Memphis Madness Zoo Hoops Celebration at the Memphis Zoo served as the preseason kickoff for both the University of Memphis men’s and women’s basketball programs.

The footage shared with We Don’t Bluff captures the feel of the gathering: cheerleaders lining the court, fans watching from the sidelines, participants moving through on-court activities, and basketball action with the crowd just steps away.

Memphis Madness at the Zoo, cut from original sideline footage — player introductions, cheerleaders and on-court action. Video: Anthony Robinson/We Don’t Bluff.

A Different Kind of Basketball Atmosphere

Instead of a traditional arena backdrop, the event put the game in an open-air setting. The Memphis blue court, surrounding crowd and team spirit gave the afternoon a distinctly local feel.

The videos show the action from close range, from the sideline excitement to activity on the court. That proximity is part of what makes the footage worth watching: it brings viewers right into the scene.

Watch the Moments

Memphis Madness is about more than a scoreboard. In these moments, it’s about the people who show up, the energy they bring, and the connection between Memphis basketball and its supporters.

Watch the footage and see the atmosphere for yourself.

Photo and video by Anthony Robinson | Article and design by Bryant Warren | We Don’t Bluff — Original Memphis sports coverage.