Photo Gallery: Enthusiastic Crowd Turns Out For Rock The `John on Friday Night

Oct. 20, 2008

GALLERY (courtesy of Mark Crammer)

The Clemson men’s and women’s basketball teams hosted Rock The `John on Friday night, which marked the official start of the basketball season. A crowd of over 5,000 fans witnessed an entertaining night at Littlejohn Coliseum.

Highlights of the event included the introduction of the men’s and women’s basketball teams, speeches by head coaches Cristy McKinney and Oliver Purnell and a first look at the teams as they each held a brief scrimmage, as well as Clemson student’s taking home some great prizes.

Members of the men’s and women’s teams were paired together for a three-point shooting competition. Seniors K.C. Rivers and Tasha Taylor turned out to be the best three-point shooting duo, and they teamed up to win the title.

“Rock The `John was a great atmosphere and a lot of fun,” said Clemson student Alex Bushroe, who is frequently seen on the front row at Clemson basketball games wearing his Tree Rollins jersey. “I thought Coach Purnell did a great job of firing up the crowd and I love his attitude about winning the ACC and a National Championship!”

Fans were treated to comical PawVision segments including Clemson Street Smarts and On the Prowl. At the end of the night, fans had the chance to get autographs and pictures with the Tigers. Rock The `John was hosted by J Dew, who did a great job of maintaining the crowd’s excitement. The winners of the student promotions were:

* Hot Shot: Matthew Templeton – won ACC Men’s Basketball Tournament tickets * Clemson Street Smarts: Patrick Kent – won a gift certificate for a Clemson trip * Knockout For A Car: Gustavo Oliverira – won a Nintendo Wii and narrowly missed a shot to win a car

Fans have another chance to see the Tigers in action during the preseason, as both squads will host an Orange & White scrimmage. On Thursday, October 23, the men’s team will hold an open practice beginning at 6:00 p.m. and a scrimmage beginning at 7:00 p.m. The Lady Tigers will hold an Orange and White scrimmage on Wednesday, October 29 at 7:00 p.m.

Season tickets are still available for both men’s and women’s basketball. For more information call 1-800-CLEMSON or visit www.clemsontigers.com.