Jan. 4, 2006

Siena will retire its first basketball jersey at halftime of its men's basketball game against Marist at Pepsi Arena on Friday, January 13 at 7 p.m. Billy Harrell, Class of 1952, will have his #10 jersey unfurled in the rafters of Pepsi Arena.

The jersey retirement is part of a ceremony in which the 1949-50 National Catholic Invitation Championship Team will be recognized. The 1949-50 Indians went 27-5 and won the NCIT Championship in Albany.

"This is an exciting chance to recognize some of Siena's great basketball tradition," director of athletics John D'Argenio said. "We have a tremendous basketball history and the 49-50 team helped pave the way for the great successes the program has achieved. Billy Harrell was a major part of the success Siena basketball achieved during this period, and the retirement of his jersey will help carry out his legacy."

Harrell led the Indians with 311 points during the 49-50 season and grabbed 387 rebounds. The 387 rebounds are still the most by a Siena player in any season in program history.

"The Flash" was a United Press Honorable Mention All-American as a senior in 1952.

Harrell also excelled at baseball and was selected in the 1952 major league baseball draft by the Cleveland Indians and six years later became the first Siena player to make the major leagues, playing a full season at third base and making just one error.

Prior to the game, a reception will be held at the Arena for the team, and there are a limited number of spaces available for the general public. Cost of the reception is $15 (does not include game ticket. Those wishing to reserve a spot can call the athletic department at 518-782-6769 to reserve their spot, or pay the night of the game at the door if spots are still available.