Oct. 22, 2003

FRESNO, Calif. - The Fresno State men's and women's basketball teams will make their first public appearance of the season on Nov. 5 at the Bulldog Basketball Extravaganza. The event will also serve as the opening night for the new Save Mart Center.

Doors open to fans at 5:30 p.m. and autograph sessions with both the men's and women's teams will begin at 6 p.m. Photo opportunities with Fresno State's mascot, Timeout, will also be available, and games will be positioned in the arena for entertainment. For those who have not yet done so, the Save Mart Center will be on display for fans to view and familiarize themselves with.

Events such as a media all-star game, a mascot basketball game and dance team performances will precede the introduction of the 2003 Fresno State volleyball team. Banner ceremonies for last year's men's and women's basketball teams will also be conducted.

After video tributes to both basketball teams, the Bulldogs will enter the arena and start warmups. Head coaches Stacy Johnson-Klein and Ray Lopes will both address the crowd and introduce their teams. Following that, the night will feature a three-point and dunk contest. The squads will then combine forces and compete in a co-ed scrimmage.

Fan participation will also be a theme of the night. Contests will be held throughout the evening, and fans will have the opportunity to win various prizes.

Tickets for the event cost $5 and $3 will be available Nov. 1 at the Save Mart Center box office and through Ticketmaster.