STORRS, Conn. (AP) UConn has more to celebrate than most during the annual First Night festivities marking the start of the new basketball season.
The Huskies on Friday were dedicating their new $40 million basketball practice facility before hanging two new championship banners (actually large plaques) next door inside Gampel Pavilion.
Fans began lining up early Friday afternoon for an evening autograph session with both national championship teams. That was to be followed by an inter-squad came between teams led by coaches Kevin Ollie and Geno Auriemma.
The First Night celebration used to be held on the first day teams were allowed to practice. But recent rule changes have led to staggered starts across the country. The UConn men's team has already held seven practices. The women began practicing on Wednesday.
