Men's Basketball | January 14, 2021

PHILADELPHIA – Two Atlantic 10 and Philadelphia Big 5 rivals are set to square off on Martin Luther King Jr. Day this Monday, with La Salle and Saint Joseph's renewing a rivalry that dates back over a century.  

In recognition and honor of the Dr. King's legacy, the two schools have announced they will once again play on the national holiday during the 2021-22 season.  

"To have the opportunity to share with our Philadelphia basketball community a day that we celebrate Dr. King and all of the contributions he has made to our society is something special," La Salle men's basketball coach Ashley Howard said.  

"If you look at the world we live in today, it is difficult to comprehend one individual taking the stance that he took to fight oppression, prejudice, and racial injustice in our world. We are hopeful that this series can extend beyond next season and give our community a special event to look forward to each year." 

The Explorers and Hawks will square off at Hagan Arena on Monday, Jan. 17, 2022. 

"Our program is honored to partner with La Salle and shine light on one of the greatest leaders our world has ever known in Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.," said Saint Joseph's head coach Billy Lange. "He led with courage, compassion and love. His message and his mission have never been more appropriate to raise awareness than they are now. We have a lot to do to create equality and it starts with our hearts." 

"When I approached Ashley about this idea in July of 2019 to play our annual Big 5 game on MLK Day, he graciously agreed. We have a shared vision for this event that will unfold as each year passes. This is just the beginning."

La Salle and Saint Joseph's began playing in 1909, before the Explorers recognized athletics teams at a varsity level. Since varsity sports began at La Salle in 1933-34, the Hawks lead the series, 65-53.

"Scheduling a nationally-televised Atlantic 10 men's basketball game provides La Salle, Saint Joseph's, the A-10 and CBS Sports with a unique opportunity to honor and celebrate the life and tremendous work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.," stated A-10 Commissioner Bernadette V. McGlade. "La Salle and Saint Joseph's programs continue their commitment to being great community partners in scheduling and programming this tribute to Dr. King through the sport of basketball."

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