Men's Basketball to Participate in 2012 Great Alaska Shootout

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - - Belmont University men's basketball will take part in the 2012 Carrs/Safeway Great Alaska Shootout Nov. 21-24, the University of Alaska Anchorage announced Thursday.

The Bruins will open play Wednesday, Nov. 21 against host UAA, who ranked No. 16 in the final NCAA Division II poll. After an off day to observe the Thanksgiving holiday, Belmont will face Northeastern or UC Riverside Friday, Nov. 23.

Charlotte, Loyola Marymount, Oral Roberts, and Texas State round out the 2012 field.

"We are excited to participate in the 2012 Carrs/Safeway Great Alaska Shootout," Belmont men's basketball head coach Rick Byrd said. "The Great Alaska Shootout has a rich history, and is one of the most recognizable events in college basketball."

"The chance to compete against quality programs during the non-conference season, while experiencing all that Alaska has to offer is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

Belmont (NCAA), UAA (NCAA), Loyola Marymount (CIT), and Oral Roberts (NIT) all reached postseason play this past season.

The 2011 Great Alaska Shootout field sported three NCAA Tournament teams (Murray State, New Mexico State, Southern Mississippi).

The Great Alaska Shootout is the longest-running regular season college basketball tournament in the nation, taking place every November since 1978.

A women's shootout runs in conjunction with the men's tournament.

Game times and television opportunities for the Great Alaska Shootout will be determined at a later date.

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