Eastern Michigan Athletics

Celebrating a Legacy of Excellence: Eastern Michigan Basketball Tradition

Celebrating a Legacy of Excellence: EMU Basketball Tradition

9/30/2023 10:31:00 AM | Men's Basketball

Full day of activities set for Saturday, Oct. 7, at the George Gervin GameAbove Center

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YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) –
As Homecoming week approaches, the Eastern Michigan University Department of Athletics is gearing up for an unforgettable celebration of its rich basketball tradition Saturday, Oct. 7, at the George Gervin GameAbove Center. The day promises to be a remarkable occasion, featuring a series of events that honor EMU's basketball heritage and provide fans with a unique basketball experience.

Admission to this extraordinary event is free, and it all begins with gates opening at 10:30 a.m. inside the George Gervin GameAbove Center. All fans must enter through Gate B – the main atrium will not be accessible. Also, please note that parking lots open at 10 a.m., and there will be a $10 parking fee (cash only) for all vehicles entering the Rynearson Stadium parking lots unless attendees possess a valid football game ticket, which must be shown at the entrance.

The highlight of the day will be the induction of 15 distinguished basketball alumni into the newly established Ring of Honor. This inaugural installation pays tribute to the very best of EMU basketball, recognizing individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the sport. The ceremony begins at 11 a.m.

To be eligible for inclusion in the Ring of Honor, individuals must have received All-American status from a major publication or played in an official National Basketball Association (NBA) or Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) game. These honorees have rightfully earned their distinguished place of honor within the George Gervin GameAbove Center, and their names will serve as an enduring source of inspiration for generations of athletes.

The list of inaugural inductees includes Earle Higgins, Harvey Marlatt, Kenny McIntosh, Lindell Reason, George Gervin, Fred Cofield, Grant Long, Derrick Dial, Carl Thomas, Charles Thomas, Earl Boykins, Laurie Byrd, Stephanie Smiley, Ryan Coleman, and Tavelyn James.

In addition to the Ring of Honor induction ceremony, the event will also feature a reunion of members from the 1997-98 men's basketball team that achieved remarkable success. This team, often considered a "team of destiny," showcased the talent and determination that defines EMU's basketball tradition. With standout players like Boykins and Dial and a veteran front line, the 1997-98 Eagles made an indelible mark in EMU's basketball history.

The celebration will culminate with fans having the first opportunity to watch the 2023-24 men's basketball team in action during their annual Green and White scrimmage. The game will feature a running clock with a pair of 20-minute halves.

Fans in attendance will have the opportunity to meet their favorite EMU players (past and present) at the event.

As the day unfolds, the festivities continue with the EMU football team taking on Ball State University at 3:30 p.m. inside Rynearson Stadium for its annual homecoming contest, adding to the excitement of this grand celebration.

This event recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of past basketball legends and ignites the spirit of EMU's vibrant basketball community. It's a day to reminisce, celebrate, and look forward to a bright future for EMU basketball.

Join us on Saturday, Oct. 7, as we come together to celebrate Eastern Michigan's basketball tradition and the exceptional athletes who have made it legendary.

Saturday, Oct. 7, Schedule
10 a.m. – Parking lots open
10:30 a.m. – Gate B to the George Gervin GameAbove Center opens
11 a.m. – Ring of Honor Ceremony
11:45 a.m. – Green and White Scrimmage
1:15 p.m. – Eagle Walk
3:30 p.m. – Football Kickoff at Rynearson Stadium
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