UR Basketball hits 100th year

Spiders’ centennial season will feature a host of festivities.

June 29, 2012; 6:00 AM • by Stephen Nielsen

The University of Richmond’s mens basketball program is celebrating its 100th anniversary during the 2012-13 season.

The season will be dedicated to looking back at the great moments of Spiders Basketball. A special 100-years logo has been unveiled which will be displayed both on the Robins Center court and on uniforms. Occasionally, however, players will wear special throwback uniforms from a past era of the program.

“The plans have been in the works for several months,” said Mark Kwolek, Director of Public Relations and New Media for UR. “Deputy Athletic Director David Walsh has led planning and the athletic marketing and public relations offices.”

Home games throughout the season will feature 15 of the greatest moments of the team’s history, going back to the 1913-14 inaugural season. There will be memorabilia, radio highlights, and former players and coaches returning to the Robins Center.

Season ticket holders will benefit from special giveaways throughout the season. Such items include bobble heads of former Spider greats Johnny Newman, Justin Harper, and Kevin Anderson, a special 100-year poster, and retro apparel. Merchandise with the 100 Years logo will also be sold at games.

One game fans should keep in mind is opening night on November 9th against Liberty. The E. Claiborne Robins family will be recognized for their contributions to the program and the Robins Center, which has housed the Spiders for the past 40 seasons. “We will tip-off the celebration that night and raise a banner to the rafters commemorating the 100th season,” said Kwolek. “Later in the year we will have a game honoring the All-Time Team that the fans select.” The date for that event has not be determined.

Fans will help pick the All-Time Spider Basketball Team by voting online. They will also be able view great moments through photo and video galleries, interact with other fans, and vote for their favorite players.