Oct. 6, 2009
PHOTO GALLERY: Cleveland & Grant Media Conference (Oct. 6, 2009)
FRESNO, Calif. - The start of December turns back the clock when the Dogs finish the West Coast Classic with a return to their old backyard, Selland Arena, where Fresno State recorded a dominating 407-136 record from 1967-2003.
The Bulldogs will host the Pacific Tigers for a special night in Boyd Grant's Tomb on Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. It will be the 152nd meeting of the two schools, a continuation of the longest series between Fresno State and any other opponent.
"There is a bit of nostalgia as I reflect back on the basketball experiences I've had as a player, coach and fan in Selland Arena," Cleveland added with a distinct excitement. "There will be great energy in the building! Fans will enjoy this trip back in time."
The game was moved to Selland because of a late date change to the exempt tournament schedule and an event that was already scheduled at the Save Mart Center.
"People like to go back to the past," Grant said. "I hope everyone will come back and relive some of those fond memories because this is a special time. As I get older, I appreciate the past more than I ever did when I was younger."
Cleveland grew up watching Grant's style of coaching and approach to teaching to the game of basketball. As a defensive student of the game, Cleveland channels a host of Grant philosophies in his fundamental game plan for success.
"This will be the best defensive team that we've had since I've been here and I know that will make Coach Grant happy," Cleveland said of his stacked 2009-10 roster.
Grant talked about his utmost respect for Cleveland.
"Coach Cleveland's teams play with great fundamentals," Grant said. "I always root for Fresno State and I know with Coach Cleveland this program is in great shape."
Ticket Information
Tickets for the Dec. 1 game at Selland Arena are included in the regular season ticket package. Season ticket holders automatically received information regarding this game in their renewal packet.
For lower bowl season tickets, please contact the Bulldog Foundation at 559-244-5600. For season tickets in the upper bowl, please contact the Bulldog Ticket Office at 559-278-DOGS or log on to www.gobulldogs.com to purchase those tickets for $189. Tickets to the Selland Arena game are included in all season tickets.
Single-game tickets to the Dec. 1 game at Selland Arena will be available beginning Monday, November 2 online through Ticketmaster, by phone through TM (559-485-TIXS) and by visiting the Selland Arena Box Office. Tickets are general admission seating and $12 in advance. Tickets will be $16 the day of the game.
Those fans interested in upgrading to the Premium Seat Package can do so by contacting the Bulldog Foundation at 559-244-5600. This premium package is $75 and includes reserved seating, wait service, parking pass and an invitation to a game reception with Coach Cleveland and Coach Grant.
Grant and 1977-78 Team To Be Honored
Grant, Fresno State's all-time winningest head men's basketball coach with a 194-74 tally over nine seasons, will be honored during the evening in a special presentation. Grant and Fresno State will welcome back his first team (1977-78) for recognition.
Grant directed the 1977-78 Bulldog squad to the best turnaround in school history with an impressive 21-6 campaign including a perfect 13-0 home record. Fresno State had gone 7-20 in 1976-77 in the year before Grant arrived on campus. Also, during the 1977-78 season, Grant became the second Fresno State coach to win 10 straight games with victories from Dec. 21, 1977 to Jan. 26, 1978.
"Everyone will be coming back for the game against Pacific," Grant added. "We are excited to get together and see everyone."
Selland Arena Background
Selland Arena is operated by SMG, who also coordinates operations for Fresno's Save Mart Center. For the last 28 years, SMG, headquartered in Philadelphia, provides construction and design consulting, facility management, pre-opening services, sales, marketing, event booking and programming to more than 200 venues in 41 states, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Canada, Europe, China, and the Middle East, controls more than 1.5 million entertainment seats worldwide and manages more than 10 million square feet of exhibit space. For additional company information, visit www.smgworld.com.
"We Are Your Team" -The Fresno State men's basketball team returns to the hardwood for their 2009-10 season and home opener on Friday, Nov. 13, 2009 at 7 p.m. in the Save Mart Center. For the latest ticket information, continue visiting www.gobulldogs.com.
