We all know that Jim Calhoun pitches Comcast (among other things), but he'll never be a pitch man for First Night.

"It's not my favorite night. Never has been, probably never will be," said Calhoun, who no doubt holds his breath every time Jerome Dyson, Stanley Robinson & Co. go up for a highlight-reel jam during the obligatory dunk competition.

Calhoun's not-so ringing endorsement aside, Friday night's First Night festivities should be a fun way to kick off the 2009-10 season.

Doors open for the event, which is free to the public, at 6 p.m. Players on both the men's and women's teams as well as coaches Calhoun and Geno Auriemma will sign autographs from 6-6:45 p.m.

The show starts at 7 p.m., with the first-ever combined men's and women's introductions, augmented by a laser light show. Shooting and dunk contests by both the men and women (gee, that oughta be exciting) will follow. Unlike in years past, there will be no intrasquad scrimmages.

Popular R&B artist Lloyd will provide entertainment.


All fans have a chance to win prizes from UConn athletics, Big Y and CBS Radio. UConn students will have opportunities to win free food, free t-shirts and other prizes.

As usual, several top-notch recruits are expected to be in attendance. Angel Nunez, a 6-foot-7 forward from New York; Roscoe Smith, a 6-7 forward out of Oak Hill Academy in Virginia; and Cory Joseph, a point guard out of Findlay (NV) Prep have said they will be in the house.