MBB: Mavericks ready for bout with Sooners
11/15/2012 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Nov. 15, 2012
UT Arlington (1-0) vs. Oklahoma (1-0)
Friday, Nov. 9, 2012, College Park Center - 7 pm CT
Radio: Soul 730 AM/ Soul730.com
Series: Sooners lead 5-0
By Michael Eldridge | UTAMavs.com
ARLINGTON, Texas - The most-anticipated home game in UT Arlington history is almost here. The Mavericks face the University of Oklahoma Sooners on Friday night at College Park Center. FOX Sports Southwest is broadcasting the game with scheduled tip-off for 7 p.m.
"Ever since last week this is all I've thought about," UT Arlington coach Scott Cross said. "I've tried not to think about it before our opening game. But since that time I get excited every time I think about it to have a Big 12 team in our facility. It's a great opportunity for us and I think our guys are ready."
The Mavericks are 24-12 in home openers all-time, all of which took place at UTA's former home Texas Hall. This is the first opener for the Mavericks at College Park Center, and UT Arlington is perfect dating back to last season at 4-0 in the new facility. Bringing together the home opener, Homecoming and the first ever Big 12 opponent to visit CPC is certain to create an electric atmosphere.
"A lot of times when we start pressuring the crowd will get involved," Cross said. "When that happens it gets our guys so energized and gives us a chance to make a run."
Senior forward Jordan Reves shared Cross' sentiment for having a loud crowd behind the Mavericks, adding it feels like a sixth man on the court.
"It's a big deal to have the crowd behind you," Reves said. "We always put emphasis on protecting our home court. There is plenty of hype going around. This is the first game and against OU it's even bigger."
Reves was a large part of UTA's victory last week at Cal State Bakersfield with 13 points, including a layup at the end of the game and a blocked shot to seal the win.
In order for the Mavs to be successful, Cross said that playing good transition defense, rebounding and taking care of the basketball are the keys.
"It's pretty basic," Cross said. "But it really is important to the game. They will have a bit of a size advantage, they are great athletes and they get a lot of second chances. They shoot a lot of jump shots so there will be a lot of long rebounds."
For more information regarding UT Arlington season tickets for the upcoming men's and women's basketball season log onto UTAMavs.comor call 817-272-6319. Men's Season tickets start as low as $66 and include all 14 home games. Women's season tickets are $49 and include all 14 home games.
UTA students don't forget to log onto your MyMav account to purchase your All-Sports Pass for $50 this gives you entry into all home UTA Athletic events. For more information call 817-272-6319.
