Siena’s 2012-13 season opens Friday, November 9 against defending America East Champion Vermont in the backend of a doubleheader with the Siena women at Times Union Center. 2012 NIT semifinalist UMass, crosstown rival UAlbany, Atlantic 10 member La Salle and an ESPN BracketBusters contest round out the highly-anticipated non-league home schedule released Friday.

“There is a real buzz in the community about this season already,” Siena coach Mitch Buonaguro said. “The home schedule is tremendous. We can’t wait to get things started November 9.”

Siena Basketball was named the “Best College/Pro Sporting Event in the Capital Region” in the Times Union’s annual Best Of poll for 2012.

Away from home, Siena will participate in the NUCDF Basketball Challenge hosted by the University of San Diego November 14-18. The Saints play Cal State Northridge, Northern Kentucky and San Diego on consecutive days. The five-team field also includes Tulsa. Proceeds from the tournament will raise awareness, support and research for the National Urea Cycle Disorders Foundation www.nucdf.org .

The non-league slate also features road dates with Navy, Maine, St. Bonaventure and Fordham.

Siena’s 14-game season ticket package is on sale now with prices starting at just $104. The popular Premium Seating Program (PSP) will be expanded to meet demand in 2012-13, with new opportunities available in the best seats in the house. PSP members enjoy exclusive benefits, including: access to premium lounge areas, in-seat waiter service and valet parking. Call the Siena Fan Relations Center at 518-487-2202 to reserve your tickets for the upcoming season.

The preceding information was provided by Jason Rich, the Assistant Athletic Director for Communications at Siena College.

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