November 27, 2002

POINSETTIA CLASSIC TO TIP OFF
SATURDAY AFTERNOON AT FURMAN

GREENVILLE, S.C. -- Furman's 4:00 p.m. tipoff with New Hampshire will highlight first round action of the 2002 Poinsettia Classic men's basketball tournament, which gets underway Saturday at Timmons Arena.

The first round clash between the Paladins and Wildcats will be preceded by a 1:30 p.m. game between Stetson and Dartmouth. Saturday's winners will meet in Sunday's championship game at 4:00 p.m. in a game televised by CSS (Charter 21 in the Upstate). The consolation game gets underway at 1:30 p.m. Sunday.

This year's tournament marks the 23rd year Furman has hosted the Poinsettia Classic, which began in 1959 and ran annually until 1979. The tournament was resurrected a year ago. In all Furman has claimed six tournament championships.

The Paladins are coming off a 104-63 loss at Louisville on Dec. 22 while New Hampshire dropped an 85-36 decision to Wisconsin on Dec. 11.

Stetson is coached by former Furman basketball standout Derek Waugh '93.

Poinsettia Classic tickets are $15 and $7.50 and are available at Timmons Arena.