The University Programming Board (UPB) pulled out all the stops to make sure there was a large crowd of Hilltoppers supporting the women’s and men’s basketball teams in the first two Blue & Gold Series games of 2015.

With a home-stand basketball double-header on Jan. 22, both the women’s and men’s basketball teams came out on top against Oklahoma Panhandle State University.

Early into the game, St. Edward’s University women’s basketball came on the offensive, outscoring their opponent 44-17 in the first half, cruising to a victory against the 2-16 Aggies.

Senior Aimee Durbidge was the leading scorer with 24 points, while sophomore Khiani Clark had 19 rebounds making her tied for ninth all-time in the St. Edward’s record books. Senior Jamie Kadlecek had a double-double with 11 rebounds and 10 points.

“Having our St. Ed’s family come out to support us during the Blue and Gold games definitely has a positive effect on us, and helps enhance our performance,” junior forward Clarissa Elizondo said.

The men’s basketball team took the floor next and early into the first half, it was clear the Hilltoppers were seeking a simultaneous victory.

Having fun in the stands during halftime, the HillRaisers had loud cheers continuing throughout the night that seemed to spark better play in the second half, where the Hilltoppers outscored their opponent 56-18.

The men’s basketball team ended the night with a blowout win, a 94-46 score.

In addition to great basketball, the student section was also playing a fun-spirited game of Bingo where squares were earned based on the amount of three-pointers, free-throws and specific chants that occurred throughout the games. Prizes included T-shirts, coffee mugs and more.

Entertaining the crowd during timeouts, the cheerleaders debuted new stunts and the Topperettes performed dance routines, while a shirtless, toned Topper stole the show.

“I thought the games were a lot of fun and my favorite part was watching our teams win,” freshman Brynlin Curry said.

The Hilltopper spirit and support continued on Saturday as the men’s and women’s basketball teams hosted Lubbock Christian University.

With a slow start in the first half, the women’s basketball suffered a 60-73 loss, bringing their record to 12-5.

The men’s basketball team played a thriller, with the game coming down to the last few seconds. A well played 67-65 victory gave the Hilltoppers first place in the Heartland Conference standings, improving their record to 16-2.