VALDOSTA, Ga. – The Valdosta State men's and women's basketball teams open up The Complex to the public on Thursday, Oct. 24 at 6 p.m. to host Blazer Madness. Fans will be able to meet both the Blazer and Lady Blazer basketball teams, hear from Blazer head coach Mike Helfer and Lady Blazer head coach Chandler Merkerson, and view performances by Valdosta State's national champion Red Hots and Cheerleaders.
 
Both teams will have various competitions including three-point shooting, trick shot contest, a talent show and a dunk contest. The event is open to the public as fans will have the chance to receive autographs, take photos and renew or purchase season tickets. VSU students will also have two chances to win a $100 Visa gift card if they scan in by 6 p.m.
 
The reigning Gulf South Conference champion Lady Blazer basketball team is coming off a historic 30-3 record overall and a program best 23-1 record in GSC play. As a team, the Lady Blazers were picked third in the GSC Preseason Coaches' Poll. Senior Victoria Ikenasio was named to the five-player preseason all-conference team. Ikenasio is coming off a 2023-2024 campaign where she averaged 8.6 points and 5.7 rebounds a game.
 
The Blazer men's basketball team finished its 2023-2024 season with a record of 12-16 overall and a 9-15 GSC record. The men's squad tied for fifth in the GSC Preseason Coaches' Poll, announced Wednesday afternoon. The Blazers bring back senior Braxton Williams, who averaged 10.6 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 1.0 steals per game.
 
For updates on Valdosta State hoops as we progress into the 2024-25 season, make sure to visit vstateblazers.com and head to both the men's and women's basketball pages for the latest stats, stories and game updates.