Oct. 10, 2002

COLLEGE PARK, Md. - The defending national champion Maryland Terrapins will open Comcast Center with its first public event on Friday evening as Midnight Madness festivities tip off the 2002-03 basketball season.

Doors to Comcast Center will open at 7:30 p.m. Advance tickets for student and general public are still available.

A book-signing event will begin at approximately 9 p.m. in the main lobby above the Terrapin Team Shop, featuring Maryland head coach Gary Williams and veteran broadcaster Johnny Holliday. Click here for more information about the recently released autobiographies by Williams and Holliday, and an online ordering form.

On-floor activities commence at 10:45 p.m., with an annual alumni game featuring past stars such as Adrian Branch, Jim O'Brien, Joe Harrington and current Terrapin assistant coaches Dave Dickerson and Matt Kovarik. Possible participants include former All-Americans Len Elmore and Tom McMillen, and Olympic gold medalist Steve Sheppard.

Returning players from the national champs will be presented with jerseys worn during their championship season at approximately 11:30 p.m. The 2002-03 women's team will be introduced at 11:45, and the men's team will be greeted with its introduction at midnight. The 2002-03 men's team will conduct its first official practice of the season with a public scrimmage immediately following its introduction.

Students and fans will receive complimentary T-shirts upon entrance to the 17,950-seat Comcast Center. Prizes will be given away throughout the evening.