Clemson to Host Rock the `John on Oct. 16, 2009 at 8:00 PM

Sept. 28, 2009

CLEMSON, SC – Clemson will play host to the second annual Rock the `John, the school’s version of Midnight Madness, on Friday, Oct. 16 at 8:00 p.m. The event, which signifies the official start to the 2009-10 basketball season for Clemson’s men’s and women’s teams, will be filled with promotions, prizes and entertainment for the whole family. Doors to Littlejohn Coliseum will open for the event at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free of charge.

Rock the `John will feature performances from the Clemson cheerleaders, Rally Cats, Tiger Band, as well as the Air Elite Dunkers from Atlanta, GA. One lucky fan will have the chance to win a car, while another fan will be shooting for $25,000. Other great prizes include a Clemson scooter, iPod Touch, home entertainment package, and an ESPN GameDay package.

Rock the `John will be the first chance for fans to meet the 2009-10 men’s and women’s basketball teams. Head coaches Cristy McKinney and Oliver Purnell will address the crowd and offer their expectations for the season. Fans will also be treated to a preview of the two teams, as both will hold short scrimmages following introductions. At the conclusion of the event, both teams will be available for autographs on the concourse level.

The first 3,000 fans will receive a free giveaway item. Team posters and schedule cards will also be available. Coca-Cola, a proud sponsor of Rock The `John, will be providing free samples outside the event. Other sponsors include Academy Sports and Outdoor, Tom Winkopp, Lake Keowee Chrysler Dodge and Clemson Army ROTC.

Jeremiah Dew, who serves as the regular in-game host for the men’s basketball home games, will be the event emcee for the second straight year.