University of North Carolina Ashville Athletics
UNC Asheville set to host “Celebration on the Court” presented by Kimmel & Associates featuring Jay Bilas and Debbie Antonelli
10.08.2021 | Men's Basketball, Women's Basketball, Athletics News
ASHEVILLE, N.C. – UNC Asheville Athletics is less than two weeks away from hosting its inaugural "Celebration on the Court" presented by Kimmel & Associates. The event, which takes place on October 21, is highlighted by keynote speaker Jay Bilas and emcee Debbie Antonelli.
In addition to serving as a tip-off function for the 2021-22 basketball seasons, "Celebration on the Court" will also honor the 10th anniversary of the Wilma M. Sherrill Center and Kimmel Arena. Proceeds from the Celebration on the Court will support UNC Asheville student-athletes. The event, which will be held in Kimmel Arena, will have both a cocktail hour (6:00-6:45 p.m.) and dinner.
The Bilas Bio
One of the most recognized voices and faces in college basketball, Bilas has been an ESPN College Basketball Analyst since 1995 and is a six-time Emmy nominee. Prior to his role(s) at ESPN, which includes broadcasting, studio work and NBA Draft coverage, many know Bilas from his collegiate days at Duke University, helping the Blue Devils advance to the National Championship both as a player (1986) and an assistant, winning back-to-back National Championships in 1991 and 1992.
The Antonelli Bio
Like Bilas, Antonelli has become a mainstay in college basketball, serving as a basketball analyst for 30 years. In 2017, she became the first female analyst in 22 years to call a men's "March Madness" game. Antonelli, who can be seen on ESPN and the ACC Network, has been the voice of the NCAA Women's Final Four on Westwood One Radio since 2000 and is a member of the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame. Prior to her television days, she was a three-year starter for North Carolina State where she helped guide the Wolfpack to four NCAA Tournament appearances and two Sweet 16 appearances.
Bulldog Basketball
Additionally, both the UNC Asheville men's and women's basketball players will be in attendance at "Celebration on the Court" and head coaches Mike Morrell (men's basketball) and Honey Brown (women's basketball) will both speak at the event.
Ticket Information
Limited tickets are still available, visit here to purchase.
Admission & COVID Protocols
Due to the prevalence of COVID in the greater Buncombe County area, admission to the "Celebration on the Court" will require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test within 72 hours of the event. Guests will be required to wear a mask upon entry to Kimmel Arena.
