The Michigan men’s and women’s basketball teams hosted a fan night in Crisler Arena this evening. The festivities included inflatable games for children, the unveiling of the Wolverines’ new pregame videos and an autograph session with all the players and coaches.

Coaches John Beilein and Kevin Borseth gave brief speeches before handing the microphone off to seniors of their respective teams. Those who talked included Ashley Jones and Carly Benson of the women’s team and C.J. Lee, Jevohn Shepherd and David Merritt of the men’s team.

Beilein drew the loudest cheer of the night when he said, “It’s going to be great to see these teams grow and get back to the top of the Big Ten where they belong.”

But he was cautious in his outlook for this year’s squad.

“Hang with us. It will probably be like this,” Beliein said, motioning up and down in a wave pattern with his hands. Then he pointed as high in the sky as he could and said, “It will probably never be like this.

He also talked about the various renovations that have taken place in Crisler over the last two years. He mentioned the lights, which were put in last year, the new speaker system and the slick new court design.

“We’re going to try and create atmosphere,” Beilein said. “We’re trying to get you up out of your seat, so you can help us when times are tough.”

The men’s team kicks off its season next Tuesday against Michigan Tech in the Coaches vs. Cancer Tournament in Ann Arbor.

During his speech, Borseth took time to praise the cheerleaders and dance team, saying he’s thankful for their presence at games.

“I came to the men’s game last night, and I was watching you guys,” Borseth said, gesturing toward the dance team. “You all do a great job.”

Borseth also talked about scheduling three top-25 teams to play in Crisler this year, which he hopes will get people excited about coming to women’s basketball games. The Wolverines will host No. 11 Texas A&M on Nov. 20, No. 12 Vanderbilt, who, according to Borseth, is picked to win the Southeastern conference above perennial powerhouses Tennessee and Louisiana State, on Nov. 23 and No. 16 Notre Dame on Dec. 10.