The Longwood Lancers are set to take center stage once again as they prepare for their second consecutive national broadcast appearance. The Joan Perry Brock Center will host the Big South ESPNU Wildcard series on Thursday, January 16 at 7 p.m., featuring a rematch between Longwood and High Point. This event marks the third time in four years that ESPN has spotlighted Longwood, highlighting the team's growing prominence in collegiate basketball.

Show Your Support: Pack the Arena and Cheer Loudly for Longwood Blue!

A National Stage for Local Talent

The excitement surrounding this matchup is palpable, as fans eagerly anticipate another thrilling contest. Last year's dramatic overtime game in the Hercules Tires Big South Tournament Semifinals still resonates with many. Longwood's narrow victory over High Point, clinching an 80-79 win, propelled them to the championship the following day. This season's regular-season split, with each team triumphing on home turf, sets the stage for an intense rematch.The Joan Perry Brock Center will be buzzing with energy as students and community members unite to support the Lancers. To foster this enthusiasm, the first 300 students and 100 community members will receive complimentary T-shirts, encouraging everyone to don Longwood blue and create an electrifying atmosphere. The significance of this game extends beyond the court; it symbolizes the growing recognition of Longwood's basketball program on a national level.

A Legacy of Success on ESPNU

Under the leadership of head coach Griff Aldrich, Longwood has become a familiar face on ESPNU broadcasts. Over the past five seasons, the Lancers have made 10 appearances on the network, with all of these coming under Aldrich's tenure. This consistent presence underscores the team's competitiveness and appeal to a broader audience. In the 2022-23 season alone, Longwood appeared three times on ESPNU, all on the road, further showcasing their resilience and adaptability.The 2021-22 season marked a pivotal moment when Longwood hosted its first ESPNU broadcast during their run to the Big South Championship. Since then, the team has maintained a strong presence on the network, appearing twice more in the 2023-24 season. These opportunities not only provide exposure but also serve as valuable learning experiences for the players, helping them develop into seasoned competitors.

Building Momentum with Non-Conference Wins

Longwood's success extends beyond their conference play. In non-conference action, the Lancers posted an impressive 11-4 record, marking the third time in seven seasons under Aldrich that they've achieved double-digit wins. This consistency demonstrates the team's ability to perform at a high level against diverse competition, preparing them well for the challenges ahead.As the Lancers gear up for their opening Big South play match against Presbyterian today at 2 p.m., streamed live on ESPN+, the momentum from their non-conference victories cannot be understated. Each win contributes to the team's confidence and readiness for the upcoming ESPNU showdown. Fans can look forward to witnessing the culmination of hard work and dedication as Longwood aims to make history once again.

Community Engagement and School Spirit

The impact of these national broadcasts reaches far beyond the basketball court. They foster a sense of pride and unity within the Longwood community. Students, faculty, and alumni rally behind the team, creating a supportive environment that enhances the overall experience. The distribution of T-shirts to attendees exemplifies the effort to engage and involve the community in these significant moments.Moreover, the visibility provided by ESPNU helps attract prospective students and athletes to Longwood. It showcases the university's commitment to excellence in athletics and academics, reinforcing its reputation as a premier institution. As the Lancers continue to shine on the national stage, they inspire future generations to pursue their dreams with passion and determination.