Several special activities planned at doubleheader;
Women's game to be nationally televised

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. -- Several added activities are planned Saturday night when Tennessee Tech hosts "Pack The House" Night in Eblen Center for the women's basketball game against Murray State. Tipoff for the game, which will be nationally televised by ESPNU, is at 5 p.m. with the men's contest to follow.

Tech is one of hundreds of schools across the nation who are competing in the NCAA's "Pack The House" promotion for women's basketball. Schools are competing to see which can creatively execute a sell-out, or see the highest percentage increase of attendance for a single game based on previous years.

Tennessee Tech's highest previous attendance for a women's basketball game was 6,113 on February 3, 1990.

Numerous groups of all ages have purchased discount tickets for the game. For information on discounted group tickets, please call the Athletics Ticket Office at (931) 372-3940.

The night is also Basketball Alumni Night, with former men's and women's players invited back. They will be recognized at halftime of each contest. Saturday's games are sponsored by Eagles Landing and Magic 98.5, with a variety of contests and prized being distributed throughout the evening.

In addition, Chick Fil-A is giving every fan in attendance a free gift, ranging from sandwiches to combo meals to shakes and more. If Tech wins either game by at least 10 points, tickets form the game may be redeemed at the Cookeville Chick Fil-A for a free sandwich during the following week.

"This is an exciting week for Tennessee Tech basketball," said Mark Wilson, TTU Director of Athletics. "With the ESPNU telecasts for each team, the return of our alumni, and the 'Pack The House' promotion, there are a lot of things going on to make it exciting.

"I know the players and coaches of both our women's and men's teams will appreciate a good turnout by our fans, and we know the fans will show their Purple Pride and have a great time," Wilson said.

In addition to all of that, several activities are planned for Tech students, who returned to campus this week. Students may register for a chance to win a $100 Barnes & Noble gift card being given by Eagles Landing. Once student will also have the chance to shoot for $500 in books for the Spring semester.

The first 100 students to the game Saturday will be given a free Purple Pride sign.

The doors at Eben Center will be open Saturday at 4 p.m.