Oct. 18, 2009

Photo Gallery: Hoops Holds Court at the Tsongas Arena

The UMass Lowell men's basketball team enjoyed a change of scenery on Friday afternoon, holding practice at the Tsongas Arena instead of their usual stomping grounds of Costello Gym.

The facility, usually used as a hockey rink at this time of year, was temporarily transformed into a basketball arena for the Boston Celtics' open practice on Oct. 16. The River Hawks were able to use the court for a few hours in the afternoon for practice before the Celtics' festivities began.

"The opportunity to practice at the Tsongas Arena was great for our players," head coach Greg Herenda said. "We had a little extra bounce today and hopefully we'll be in there more often in the future."

After practice, the River Hawks got a special visitor, as NBA All-Star and Celtics standout Ray Allen stopped by the locker room to share some thoughts with the squad. He spoke to the players about hard work, dedication and taking ownership of their team.

"I have had so many alums, professors and administrators speak to my team," Herenda said. "But having an NBA All-Star and a true role model like Ray speak, made it very special for our entire program."

The River Hawks are coming off a 21-8 season in 2008-09, with a 16-6 mark in Northeast-10 Conference action. They will head to Storrs, CT on Nov. 8 for a 1:00 p.m. exhibition game against Allen's alma mater and Division I powerhouse, the University of Connecticut, and then open their 2009-10 campaign at home against Mercy on Nov. 15 at 3:00 p.m.