Even though the ETSU men’s basketball team has not started their season they are already making headline news.
It was announced Wednesday that the ETSU men’s basketball team will not only be participating in the ESPN Bracket Buster for the second season, in a row, but they will now be doing it on their own court.
The Bucs first appearance in ESPN’s Bracket Buster last year turned out successful for the team, defeating Fresno State in California 66-62. This game was played on the Bulldogs’ home court, but that did not falter the Bucs determination to show the nation that they deserved to be there.
This year the Bucs’ are coming off of two winning seasons and two back-to-back Southern Conference Championships, making it all the way to the Big Dance with a close game against Cincinnati in 2004 and Wake Forest in 2003.
Practices have already begun to get the new players adjusted to the system.
Freshmen Andrew Reed and Greg Surmacz are sure to bring some new excitement to the game. Surmacz is a second all-time leading scorer of all time from Peterborough High School in Ontario, Canada. He is also a member of the Canadian Junior National Team.
Junior College first team All American Chris Mitchell will also bring some enthusiasm to the game. Mitchell is a regional and conference player of the year from Highland Community College in Freeport, Ill.
Tim Smith is always an interesting player to watch, as well as James Anthony and Brad Nuckles.
The home court advantage will be a welcome bonus to the Bucs 2004-2005 season. “We are extremely excited to once again participate in the ESPN Bracket Buster,” said head coach Murry Bartow. “Last year was a great experience for our team, especially going to Fresno State and being fortunate enough to get a win on their home court.”
This year, Fresno makes the return trip to play us here at the Dome, plus we will host a Bracket Buster game. For our program, the event has been nothing but positive.

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