It was a high priority for us to find a better way to identify the beginning of the season. We want fans to understand that college basketball doesn't start in February and March.

This is just the beginning phase of a much stronger presence for us in Eastern Kentucky.

The NCAA tournament is the ultimate prize, and that's the way we want it. But there is an unquenchable thirst out there for college basketball -- and hey, there is always somebody out there willing to marry the ugly stepsister.

The objective of the NIT is to restore its heritage as a meaningful postseason tournament.

Dave has been like a kid in a candy store for the last few months. He's loving every minute of putting the tournament together, and he's doing a great job.

We want as many visitors as close to the action as possible, and that centralized action can ensure that Indianapolis remains in the forefront of our host families.