[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 44 (Wednesday, March 19, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E515-E516]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT ASHEVILLE MEN'S BASKETBALL 
                                  TEAM

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHARLES H. TAYLOR

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 19, 2003

  Mr. TAYLOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in proud recognition of the 
University of North Carolina at Asheville Men's Basketball Team. In the 
University's rich seventy-six year history, the 2002-2003 Men's 
Basketball Team is the first to represent the school in the NCAA 
Tournament.
  This accomplishment was achieved through the incredible effort the 
men's team demonstrated during the Big South Conference Tournament. The 
team had three consecutive wins and defeated Radford University, 85-71, 
to clinch the Big South Conference title.
  Not only did the men's team win their division championship, but they 
continue to represent the school well in the NCAA Tournament. The UNC-A 
Men's Team, on Tuesday, March 18, 2003, defeated Texas Southern, 92-84.
  This proud moment in the University's history could not have been 
achieved without the leadership and effort of several individuals. 
Coach Eddie Biedenbach and his assistant coaches, Thomas Nash and 
Nicholas McDevitt, have done an incredible job guiding these 
outstanding men. In addition, the support of Chancellor James Mullen, 
Athletic Director Dr. Joni Comstock and her staff, and Drs. Eric 
Iovacchini and Kevan Frazier with the Office of Student Affairs have 
been instrumental in the success of the program.
  Finally, I would like to mention the Senior leadership of the men's 
basketball team. Andre Smith, Alex Kragel, and Ben McGonagil have 
devoted themselves to this team, to this effort, and to this 
University. On behalf of North Carolina's Eleventh District, I would 
like to congratulate the team, the staff, and the student body on their 
success, both present and future.

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