Southeast launches push for Sellout II

~ The university is holding the basketball promotion for the second straight year

Last year's attempt to sell out the Show Me Center for Southeast Missouri State basketball drew the biggest crowd of the season but fell short of filling up the arena.

But the promotion went well enough that Southeast is trying it again for the Jan. 29 doubleheader against Tennessee Tech. The women's game begins at 4 p.m. followed by the men's contest at 6.

The Southeast department of athletics recently announced "The Show Me Sellout -- Part II," a community-wide effort that encourages fans from across the region to show their support for Southeast basketball by packing the Show Me Center.

The event also benefits the community by providing an opportunity for area youth to attend a college basketball game.

Southeast fans can help support the effort by purchasing a group of specially priced $5 tickets (minimum purchase of 10 tickets) and making it possible for disadvantaged youth and their families to attend the game.

The sponsored tickets will be donated to students in the Cape Girardeau and Jackson school districts and other area youth oriented organizations.

Those wishing to make a contribution and sponsor a group should call the Southeast ticket office at 651-2113. Tickets purchased will be distributed to area organizations on behalf of donors.

Last year's inaugural "Show Me Sellout" drew 5,515 to watch Southeast play Austin Peay. The Redhawks men lost to the Governors in overtime.

As part of the event, Southeast's 2010 Ohio Valley Conference champion football team will be honored during a ceremony at halftime of the men's game. Members of the squad will sign autographs between the men's and women's contests.

Southeast last had a basketball sellout when 7,241 fans packed the Show Me Center for a game against Murray State on Feb. 12, 2000.

That was the season Southeast win its only Ohio Valley Conference title and made its only NCAA Division I tournament appearance.