
On January 22, 2025, the Ole Miss Rebels men’s basketball team faced the Texas A&M Aggies in a thrilling matchup at the Sandy and John Black Pavilion (SJB Pavilion) in Oxford, Mississippi.
Despite a narrow 63-62 loss to the Aggies, the game was historic for the Rebels, as they welcomed a record-breaking student crowd of 3,445 fans, the largest in the program’s history.
The SJB Pavilion, which opened in January 2016, has a seating capacity of approximately 9,500 and serves as the home court for the Ole Miss men’s and women’s basketball teams. The student section, known as “Club Red,” has become renowned for its passionate support, creating an electrifying atmosphere during home games.
The record-setting attendance against Texas A&M surpassed previous milestones, reflecting the growing enthusiasm among the student body for the basketball program. This surge in support has been evident in recent seasons, with significant turnouts contributing to the team’s home-court advantage.
In the game against Texas A&M, the Rebels led for the majority of the contest. However, a pivotal three-pointer by Aggies’ guard Manny Obaseki with 12.5 seconds remaining gave Texas A&M their first lead, ultimately sealing the victory. Ole Miss guard Sean Pedulla led the team with 16 points, but the late-game rally by the Aggies overshadowed his performance.
The record attendance is a testament to the efforts of the university and the athletic department to engage the student population. Initiatives to enhance the game-day experience, including promotions, interactive events, and improved facilities, have played a significant role in attracting larger crowds.
Head coach Chris Beard has also emphasized the importance of student support, acknowledging the energy and momentum that a vibrant home crowd brings to the team. The players have expressed their appreciation for the enthusiastic fan base, noting that the support provides a tangible boost during critical moments in games.
The impact of a record-breaking student crowd extends beyond the immediate game-day experience. A robust home-court atmosphere can influence recruiting efforts, as prospective players often consider fan support and game-day environments when making their decisions. Additionally, increased attendance contributes to the overall prestige and visibility of the basketball program.
The university’s commitment to fostering school spirit and encouraging student involvement in athletics has been instrumental in achieving these attendance milestones. Collaborations between the athletic department, student organizations, and marketing teams have created a cohesive strategy to promote games and engage the student body.
Looking ahead, the Rebels aim to build on this momentum, striving for continued success on the court and sustained support from the student community. The record-setting attendance against Texas A&M serves as a benchmark and a source of inspiration for future games.
In conclusion, the January 22, 2025, game against Texas A&M was significant not only for the intense on-court action but also for the unprecedented support from the student body. The record-breaking attendance at the SJB Pavilion underscores the growing enthusiasm for Ole Miss basketball and highlights the vital role that student fans play in the program’s success.