Athletics And City Of Clemson To Play Host To

Oct. 5, 2004

The Clemson University Athletic Department, in conjunction with the City of Clemson and Mayor Larry Abernathy’s Office announced Tuesday afternoon, “Clemson Midnight Hoops Courtside on College Avenue” scheduled to take place at 11:15 PM Friday evening, October 15, 2004 on the streets of Clemson.

In cooperation with the City of Clemson, the Downtown merchants and the City of Clemson Police Department, a portable basketball floor and basketball goals will be placed at the intersection of College Avenue and North Clemson Avenue. In order to set up the court and stage, College Avenue will be closed beginning at 7:00 PM and re-opening at 3:00 AM. All Tigerama traffic and downtown traffic will be routed to Highway 93 from Highway 123 and Highway 76. College Avenue will be blocked from Keith Street to Highway 93.

“I am really excited about the Clemson Midnight Hoops Courtside on College Avenue, particularly because it is an effort to reach out to our student body and let them know how important a role they play in the resurgence of our basketball program,” said Oliver Purnell, Clemson men’s basketball Head Coach. “This is an opportunity to introduce our new team to the students and supporters of Clemson basketball and to share our excitement for the upcoming season in an unique setting.”

“This will be one of the most innovative tip-off events in the history of college basketball,” said Clemson women’s basketball Head Coach, Jim Davis. “It should be an unusual, but exciting setting. Our program is looking forward to it because it should be a great way to kickoff our season.”

The event is scheduled to begin at 11:15 with give-aways, music and introductions of Oliver Purnell Tiger team. A team dunking contest, three-point shooting contest and free-throw shooting contest will begin at 12:00 AM, the first time all NCAA men’s and women’s basketball teams can begin practice. All fans are requested to wear orange throughout the weekend.