NEWS RELEASE

Contact: David West (west@nsula.edu )
News Bureau
Northwestern State University
Natchitoches, LA 71497
(318) 357-6466

3/21/2006

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NATCHITOCHES -The Northwestern State Demons captured the heart of the nation with their dramatic 64-63 win over Iowa last Friday. That victory boosted the profile of NSU's men's basketball program and could also help Northwestern and the city of Natchitoches.

Three days of national exposure on CBS, ESPN, the Internet and in major newspapers helped expose millions to the university and the community.

"The win over Iowa was a shining moment for our basketball team and all those who care about Northwestern," said NSU President Dr. Randall J. Webb. "The coaches and players have worked hard to become one of the best teams in the country. During that time in the spotlight, they were exemplary role models who made us all proud."

The success on the basketball court could help all areas of the university.

"The win was perfect timing in terms of helping recruit students," said Director of University Recruiting Jana Lucky. "For many students, decision time is in March and April. We have seen the number of inquiries double in the days after the Tournament. Not only was the win helpful, but the way the team members conducted themselves on and off the court let the nation know the kind of people we have at Northwestern."

Positive reaction from the win began happening as soon as senior Jermaine Wallace made the game-winning three-point shot.

"Right away, the phone began ringing. People heard about Natchitoches and wanted to find out more about the city and the area," said Iris Harper, executive director of the Natchitoches Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. "The kind of exposure Natchitoches and Northwestern received is invaluable. There's no question that this will lead more visitors to Natchitoches."

Alumni, many of whom may not have visited the campus in years, began sending e-mails and calling the university soon after the victory.

"I have received an unbelievable number of phone calls and e-mails from all over the country about the game," said Director of Alumni and Development Dr. Chris Maggio. "An alumnus in Iowa let me know that they were glad to be wearing purple in a sea of gold and black.

"Our alumni are so proud of what the basketball team accomplished. They enjoyed being able to see it on television or reading about it in their local paper, then being able to say 'That's where I went to school.'''

Maggio said the win could help the university reach and exceed its capital campaign goal of $18.84 million.

"Because of the excitement, people want to help," he said. "This event is something that is bigger than just basketball. It spills over to the entire university."

Despite all that success, the team never forgot its roots. NSU's down-to earth style made a lasting impression on the media that covered the NCAA Tournament.

"Northwestern State is the kind of team that is refreshing in a tournament sometimes dominated by worldly players and polished coaches," said Joe LaPointe in the New York Times.

The paper also noted that several Demons avoided talking about themselves during press conferences and asked people to remember those in the region who had been impacted by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

"The whole world was able to see what we already knew. We are fortunate to have a great coach in Mike McConathy and the kind of players we have," said Maggio. "In this fast paced world, we saw that regular people who are nice can have success."

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