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ISC and ETSU Host NBA Preseason Game Oct. 16

The International Storytelling Center (ISC) and the East Tennessee State University (ETSU) Department of Intercollegiate Athletics have teamed up to host an NBA exhibition game on Saturday, October 16, 2010, inside the ETSU/Mountain States Health Alliance Athletic Center in Johnson City, Tennessee.

The game will feature the New Orleans Hornets and the Atlanta Hawks, and the event is being made possible thanks to the generosity of New Orleans Hornets owner George Shinn and his interest in supporting both the ISC and ETSU athletics.

“We are thrilled to bring the excitement of New Orleans Hornets Basketball to the fans in East Tennessee,” Shinn said. “It’s customary for NBA teams to schedule preseason games outside of their home market, and we are so excited that our neighbors in this area will get to see Chris Paul and some of the most talented athletes in the world.”

Shinn’s desire to get involved in supporting the Northeast Tennessee community began when he and his wife Denise purchased a home in Telford. The Shinns then met Jimmy Neil Smith, founder and president of the International Storytelling Center, and that relationship led to a desire to help raise funds for the ISC. That in turn gave birth to plans to host an NBA exhibition game in Johnson City, which brought ETSU athletics on board.

“We are honored to have George and Denise making such a great impact on our community,” Smith said. “We are very pleased that they are generously supporting the families, organizations, and institutions of our region.”

ETSU Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Dave Mullins said his department is excited to be a part of bringing the NBA to Johnson City.

“This opportunity does not come around often, and Mr. Shinn’s desire to help support our program is something we welcome,” Mullins said. “Teaming up with the International Storytelling Center may not seem like a natural fit, but the work we have done and will do over the next year will bring an outstanding event to our community, while also helping raise financial support for both our programs.”

“Denise and I have a passion for giving back to our communities,” Shinn said. “We have owned our Tennessee home since Hurricane Katrina, and we are committed to becoming a part of the fabric of this community since we spend time here. God has blessed us, and it’s important for us to share our passion and love with our neighbors and friends.”

Game proceeds will benefit ISC programming and ETSU athletics.

Tickets for the NBA preseason game between the New Orleans Hornets and Atlanta Hawks are available now by calling the ETSU Athletics Office at (423) 439-3878. Ticket prices range from $5 to $75.