CLEVELAND - Coach Jason Conner and the 2008-2009 Delta State University men's basketball team will open the season Monday, Nov. 17 versus the Chargers of Alabama-Huntsville at Walter Sillers Coliseum.  Tip-off is set for 7 p.m.

"We're excited to get to play against someone in another colored jersey.  We've been pounding away at each other for almost a month and our guys are ready to open the year," said Conner.  "We have some high expectations this season and we know a fast start is very important to reaching our goals this year."

The Statesmen return four starters off last year's 14-12 squad.  A bevy of talented newcomers will also make this team one of the most talented in the West Division of the Gulf South Conference.  

The league's 15 coaches have taken notice as well, selecting the Statesmen to finish second in the GSv West this year.  

"We've got a great group coming back this year and coach (Brian) Ellis and I believe we have brought in one of the best recruiting classes in many years here at DSU," added Conner.  

Standouts Earnesto Green, Chad Akins, Oliver Mansour, David Clark and Eric Spencer are all back from solid campaigns last season.  Key reserves Brad Skipper and Jason Elzie also return.  

Among the newcomers this season are former Big-12 Conference Freshman of the Year Joe McCray, and Mississippi Junior and Community College All-State selection Alton Robsinson.  Several other newcomers will factor into the rotation early, including Arian Maliqi, Dmitry Pirshin, Stanley Copeland, and John Schank. 

Tickets will be available at the door and online for this year's Statesmen home games.  Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. on Monday.