The 2002 York University Nike Excalibur Classic men''s basketball tournament begins at the Tait McKenzie Centre on Dec. 28, kicking off the second half of the CIS (Canadian Interuniversity Sport) men''s basketball season. The eight-team tournament consists of six teams from Ontario University Athletics (OUA), one from Canada West (CWUAA) and one from the Canadian Colleges Athletic Association (CCAA).
The host York Yeomen (6-2, 2nd in OUA East) will open the tournament against the Brock University Badgers (5-2, 2nd in OUA West). York, ranked fifth in the CIS, started the season strong and will be looking to make a return trip to CIS National Championship in March, 2003. York is led by veteran point-guard Tom McChesney and 2001-2002 first team OUA All-Star forward Ryan French. Daniel Eves and Jordan Foebel are a pair of first-year players who have been impressive for the Yeomen this season. Eves is the team''s leading scorer (14.4/game) and Foebel is third in CIS in field goal percentage (68.2).
The Badgers have been the surprise team in the OUA West Division this season. Currently in second place in the division with a 5-2 record, Brock finished fifth in the West last year with a record of 10-12. Forward Kevin Stienstra is third in CIS in rebounds (11.7/game) and is second in CIS in scoring (23.2/game) and field goal percentage (68.9).
The tournament begins at 1pm Saturday, Dec. 28 and runs through Monday, Dec.30 with the championship final set for 7pm. Tournament passes can be purchased on site.
For more details check www.sport.yorku.ca/interuniversity_sport/athletes_site/index.asp.