The Findlay Toyota Las Vegas Classic brings together some of the nations up-and-coming teams to compete in an early season basketball event. The 2008 field is full of teams hoping to make a name for themselves including Creighton University, DePaul University, Saint Louis University and Fresno State University.


In addition, the field of eight teams includes: Southern University, Liberty University, University of South Carolina Upstate and the University of Northern Colorado. Each team will play four games – the first two at campus sites, and the final two at the Orleans Arena.


The Bluejays from Creighton (22-11) had nine newcomers last season, including Missouri Valley freshman of the year guard P'Allen Stinnett (12.6 ppg). Creighton will be an early favorite to win the Missouri Valley Conference.


The Blue Demons (11-19) and Big East rookie duo, sophomore guard Dar Tucker (13.6 ppg) and sophomore center Mac Koshwal (10.7 ppg) look to lead DePaul to the top half of the Big East.


Fresno State (13-19) looks to rebound behind the guard tandem of senior guard Dwight O'Neil (8.8 ppg) and junior guard Brian Harvey (10.6 ppg).


Finals will be held Dec. 22 and 23, 2008. Tickets for the final rounds in Las Vegas can be purchased at the participating schools' box offices or at the Orleans Arena.  For ticket information please contact the Orleans Arena at (702) 284-7777 or www.orleansarena.com.


Orleans Hotel and Casino