NEWPORT NEWS, Va.- Christopher Newport University Men's Basketball Coach
John Krikorian released the 2011-12 men's basketball schedule today.
Krikorian announced several special events this season, as he begins his second season leading the Captains. First, CNU will play host to Division I Hampton University in a pre-season exhibition on November 8th at the Freeman Center. The Pirates advanced to the NCAA Tournament last season and will make their first ever appearance in the Freeman Center.
"We are constantly looking for ways to take this program to the next level, prepare our team for success nationally, and provide our players with memorable experiences," Krikorian said. "With this year's schedule, I believe we have accomplished all of the above."
CNU will also get another Division I treat this season, as the Captains travel to the Ted Constant Convocation Center on the campus of Old Dominion University in late January. The date will have special 757 flair as CNU will take on top-ranked Virginia Wesleyan at the Ted on the same day ODU takes on William & Mary as a part of the Hampton Roads Coaches vs. Cancer Doubleheader.
"Hosting Hampton University at the Freeman Center and playing in front of thousands at the Constant Center against Virginia Wesleyan, the top team in the nation in the pre-season poll, are games our players will never forget," Krikorian continued. "At the same time, we are playing the most challenging non-conference schedule possible to prepare us for a very competitive USA South, with last year's champion N.C. Wesleyan returning all five starters."
Krikorian's squad will open the season on the road against Randolph-Macon College, #13 in the final 2010 national rankings, and then on to Mary Washington for an early tournament. The season opener is the first of five games against 2010 NCAA Tournament teams, as the Captains will also play St. Mary's College, ranked #5 in the country, at home on December 1, top-ranked Virginia Wesleyan in Norfolk on January 28 and twice against conference rival N.C. Wesleyan.
CNU will also host a pair of in-season tournaments as the Captains welcome Wesley and Washington & Lee in for the CNU/Point Plaza Invitational November 25-27. McDaniel, Worcester State and Piedmont will all be in town for the Captains Shootout at the Freeman Center December 29-30.
"We always try to play as many games at the Freeman Center while our students are on campus," Krikorian said. "By doing that we can continue to enjoy one of the best homecourt advantages in Division III. Our Athletic Department really does a great job of creating a big time atmosphere at our games, and I hope that people will come out again this year to support the Captains."
Click Here for the complete 2011-12 men's basketball schedule.
