Fibertech Networks will serve as the presenting game sponsor for Thanksgiving Throwdown between the St. Bonaventure men’s basketball team and rival Niagara on Saturday, Nov. 24, at 4 p.m. at Blue Cross Arena.
This is the seventh time that St. Bonaventure and Fibertech Networks have partnered to showcase a Division I men’s basketball game in Rochester. The partnership dates back to 2002.
Fibertech is a leader in building and operating fiber optic networks throughout mid-size cities in the Eastern and Central regions of the United States. The Rochester-based company has quickly established itself as a high-quality provider of metro-based fiber optic transport services.
“We’re extremely grateful and thankful for Fibertech Networks sponsorship and continued support of St. Bonaventure playing in Rochester,” said Steve Watson, Director of Athletics. “Fibertech is a leader in the Rochester business community, and their commitment helps us fulfill our goal of bringing Division I basketball back to the Flower City every year. Our alumni support and attendance each year has been fantastic, and we’re looking forward to replicating that atmosphere again.”
St. Bonaventure basketball and the Rochester region have enjoyed a strong relationship over the years. The game against Niagara marks the 18th time the Bonnies will have played a game in Rochester and the fourth straight year St. Bonaventure has hosted a game at Blue Cross Arena.
The Bonnies have played seven games – four decided by five points or fewer or in overtime – since 2000 at Blue Cross Arena. Bonaventure has hosted recent games in Rochester against North Carolina State (2011), Virginia Tech (2010), St. John’s (2009), West Virginia (2005) and Syracuse (2003).
The reigning Atlantic 10 champion Bonnies return nine players and three starters from last year’s team that earned the program’s first NCAA Tournament berth since 2000. Under coach Mark Schmidt’s guidance, the Bonnies went 20-12 (10-6 A-10) and captured victories over Saint Joseph’s, Massachusetts and Xavier to win the A-10 Championship title.
St. Bonaventure owns an 83-69 edge over Niagara in the all-time series, which dates back to the 1920-21 season. The Bonnies topped the Purple Eagles, 72-70, last season at Niagara’s Gallagher Center behind current senior Demitrius Conger’s career-high 27 points and 11 rebounds.
Niagara finished 14-19 last season behind Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Rookie of the Year Juan’ya Green. The guard averaged 17.7 points per game, which ranked second nationally among freshmen.
Game tickets go on sale to the general public starting on Oct. 15. Options for purchasing tickets will be announced soon.
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