A Chesapeake Energy Capital Classic pre-game reception, hosted by the Marshall University Alumni Association, will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24, in the South Hall of the Charleston Civic Center.

The event, which is free to the public, is being sponsored by EZ To Use Big Book Ogden Directories and Pepsi Bottling. “We appreciate our sponsors and are grateful for their generosity,” said Tish Littlehales, Marshall’s director of alumni relations.

In addition to a live band performing, the reception will feature giveaways, complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.

The reception coincides with a basketball doubleheader between Marshall University’s and West Virginia University’s women’s and men’s basketball teams in the Charleston Civic Center Coliseum. The women tip off at 5:30 p.m., followed by the men’s game at 8 p.m.

Representatives from many Marshall colleges and departments will take part in the reception, setting up displays and sharing information with visitors. Marshall’s cheerleaders, along with Marco and the pep band, also will make an appearance.

“The annual pre-game reception is the perfect opportunity for Thundering Herd fans to socialize and get fired up for the basketball games,” Littlehales said. “Everyone knows how Marshall fans love to tailgate. This event is like a tailgate, only indoors. We’re looking for a big crowd of excited Herd fans on the 24th!”

For more information, contact Nancy Pelphrey with the Alumni Association at (304) 696-3134.

For more information about the game, go to the Herd Zone.