BOONE, N.C. - Appalachian State basketball fans will get their first look at the 2009-10 editions of the men's and women's basketball teams at the annual Mountaineer Madness on Thurs, November 5 at the Holmes Convocation Center. Doors to the Holmes Center open at 8 p.m. with the Madness commencing at 8:30 p.m. Admission is free for all fans.

The first 500 fans through the door will receive team posters in addition to a wide range of great prizes to be awarded with numerous contests throughout the evening. Joining in the Madness will be the ASU cheerleading and dance team who will perform along with the ASU pep band.

In addition to seeing the men's team and the women's squad in action, both men's coach Buzz Peterson and women's coach Darcie Vincent will speak about the excitement leading up to the 2009-10 season.

The evening will close with the men's team holding the fan-favorite slam-dunk competition.

The men's team returns to the Holmes Center floor the following night for an exhibition against Mars Hill at 7:30 p.m.

Both teams will use Mountaineer Madness as a springboard to the upcoming season with both teams opening up the season on Friday, November 13. The men host UNC Wilmington at 7 p.m. at the Holmes Center while the women travel to face former SoCon rival Marshall. For tickets, click here or call 828-262-2079.

Men's Basketball Practice Report: Monday, November 2

With just four days before Friday's exhibition, the level of intensity at practice was noticably higher Monday than in previous weeks.

The Apps spent time working on being aggressive offensively and attacking the paint. On the defensive end, the Mountaineers emphasized keeping an eye on the ball while maintaining their position.

Time was spent on defensive transition drills, closing out on shooters, and implementing plays on both ends of the court.

Jeremi Booth and Andre Williamson were particularly effective in a number of Monday's drills as both players took advantage of their massive wingspans.

Kellen Brand was also notably active on defense, forcing turnovers and intercepting passes more often than not.

The Mountaineers have Tuesday off after five-straight days on the court before working out Wednesday night and Thursday morning before Mountaineer Madness and the exhibition.

Fans are reminded to check GoASU.com daily for continued coverage of both the men's and women's basketball teams. Written reports from men's practice will be posted on Monday and Wednesday with women's reports following on Tuesday and Thursday. Additionally, video practice reports are available daily from GoASU TV.