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Basketball Teams Ready for Tip-off in American Bank Center Arena
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Even before its projected debut in November the new American Bank Center Arena is having an impact on the Islander basketball programs. According to A&M-Corpus Christi Athletic Director Dan Viola, the new 150,000 square foot facility, which will serve as the Islanders’ home court beginning this season, has become a major selling point for top recruits and could be the key to an elusive conference membership.
“We’re using the new arena as a recruiting tool and it’s already paying benefits,” said Viola. “It’s going to be an excellent facility and a great showcase for our men’s and women’s basketball teams.” |
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The absence of football has been the largest obstacle to A&M-Corpus Christi’s conference aspirations, said Viola. But, with the opening of the 8,000-seat venue, the basketball program could provide the impetus for a conference invitation.“No question we need to get into a conference,” said men’s basketball coach Ronnie Arrow. “The arena could make it a reality…We hope it will be the key to getting us into a conference.”
The new arena, which is located adjacent to the Convention Center at the corner of Shoreline Boulevard and Resaca Street, features split-tier seating which puts every spectator close to the action. The Arena’s horseshoe configuration also creates an optimum setting for entertainment events such as concerts and allows for the addition of 2,500 additional seats when the market warrants expansion.
The Arena is scheduled to open in November in time for an eight-team basketball tournament that will include such established national powers as Mississippi, Florida State, TCU and Auburn. The event will be staged by Worldwide Basketball with A&M-Corpus Christi as the host school. The Islander women will host a two-day tournament in the arena on Nov. 25-26 and the men will host their annual tournament in December. |
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Islanders
Update
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