West Virginia University is making steady preparations for the annual basketball game against Marshall University at the Charleston Civic Center Tuesday, Jan. 9. The Lady Mountaineers hit the hardwoods at 5:30 p.m. with the mens game tipping off at 8 p.m.

WVU has a full slate of activities scheduled in conjunction with the Toyota Capital Classic.

Gov.-elect Bob Wise will give the keynote address at the joint WVU -MU Alumni Luncheon at 11:45 a.m. Tuesday at Embassy Suites. The luncheon is a sellout with more than 700 expected. Gov. Cecil Underwood is also expected to offer brief remarks.

That evening, WVU welcomes the public to a free pre-game”Face to Face with WVU “reception beginning at 6:15 p.m. in the North Hall of the Civic Center. More than 20 WVU schools, colleges and units will be on hand, including counselors from Admissions and Records who will provide on-the-spot admissions evaluations for high school seniors.

Students should bring their high school transcripts, ACT or SAT scores, $15 application fee and the WVU application. The application and transcript can be obtained through a high school guidance counselors office. WVU counselors will also help guide parents and students through the financial aid process.

Womens Gymnastics Coach Linda Burdette and several members of the squad will be on hand to greet the public, including All-American Kristen Macrie and Charleston native Christen Simpson.

WVU s mini-baha race car from the College of Engineering and Mineral Resources will also be on display, and the WVU Pep Band, Steel Drum Ensemble and a contingency of Mountaineer Maniacs (members of WVU s student boosters organization) will be there to liven up the festivities.

More than 500 attended last years free reception that will once again feature light refreshments, a cash bar and giveaways.