If you enjoyed Stony Brook's NIT game against Illinois last March in Stony Brook Arena, then, mark Feb. 12 on your sports calendar. ESPNU is bringing its cameras to the Arena that Saturday to televise an 11 a.m. America East matchup between the Seawolves and Maine.

ESPNU reaches 73.5 million homes across the country, providing welcome exposure for coach Steve Pikiell's growing program. "We are thrilled and honored to be selected as host for an ESPN game for the second year in a row," Stony Brook athletic director Jim Fiore said in a release, referring to the NIT game.

The Maine game will be SBU's second ESPN appearance of the 2010-11 season. The Seawolves are one of the teams participating in the ESPN College Hoops Tip-Off Marathon, appearing in a 6 a.m. game on Nov. 16 at Monmouth.

"It's an exciting time for Stony Brook basketball," Pikiell said in the release. "We can't wait to play."

The defending America East regular-season champions have four returning starters from last season's 22-10 team, including guards Chris Martin and Bryan Dougher and forwards Tommy Brenton and Dallas Joyner. Pikiell also is looking forward to four key recruits, including recently announced 6-9 forward/center Anthony Mayo out of Roman Catholic High in Philadelphia, who considered prep school while waiting to attend Villanova. He ranks among the top 100 centers in the nation.

Previous recruits announced include guards Dave Coley of Brooklyn and Anthony Jackson of Columbus, Ohio and 6-7 forward Al Rapier of Chicago and junior college power Mineral Area CC in Missouri. Coley should provide some instant offense off the bench, and Rapier and Mayo should add more of an inside presence with Brenton possibly moving to small forward.

Two ESPN dates this season are a big plus in terms of exposure, and indications are that Stony Brook's agreement to visit Monmouth for the 6 a.m. Tip-Off Marathon game might lead to a home game next season.
 

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