July 3, 2002

Villanova, Pa. - Villanova will salute its rich basketball history with its second annual summer alumni games next month. There will be a doubleheader beginning at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 4 at the Jake Nevin Field House. Both games are open to the public and admission is free.

The first half of the twinbill will feature teams comprised of Villanova basketball graduates from the 1960s, '70s and '80s. In the nightcap, which is set to begin at 6:15 p.m., Wildcat professionals from the 1990s and the recent past will be featured. Among those who participated in the 2001 Summer Alumni contest were 1985 Final Four Most Valuable Player Ed Pinckney, Toronto Raptors standout Alvin Williams, 12-year NBA veteran Doug West, and the school's all-time leading shot blocker, Jason Lawson.

"We are indebted to the players who have built the great Villanova basketball tradition and this is one way we like to acknowledge that," said head coach Jay Wright. "This is an opportunity for our current players to interact with the men who paved the way for them and also a means for our fans to catch up with their favorite players from the past. It's going to be a great night."

Last season an alumni squad battled the 2001-02 Wildcats in advance of Villanova's August tour of Italy. The 2001-02 group edged the alumni team 88-85 in a spirited contest. However, by NCAA rules such matchups are only permissible in years when a team is taking an overseas tour. Thus, this year's featured games will showcase only alumni.

The alumni games kick off what promises to be a summer basketball appetizer for 'Cat fans. On Monday, Aug. 5, the first Wildcat Summer Jam will be held for Villanova season ticketholders in front of the Pavilion. Members of the men's and women's basketball squads will be on hand as guests enjoy a party featuring, food, drink, a live band and assorted games for young and old alike.

Keep an eye on villanova.com for more details on these events in the coming weeks.