Updated Men's Bracket

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. -- The Kentucky State men's basketball team is preparing for their opening round game today against the Claflin University Panthers at the SIAC Basketball Championship Tournament. Tip-off is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. (CT) at the newly renovated Bill Harris Arena.

The teams met earlier this season, on Jan. 9, in Orangeburg, S.C. where the Panthers defeated the Thorobreds, 73-64. The Thorobreds shot a season low 32% (10-for-31) from the free-throw line against the Panthers.

"In our game earlier this year we came out flat on the road, which you can't do in this conference" Head Coach Antwain Banks said. "We put ourselves in a hole when we hit just 4-of-19 from the free-throw line in the first half. With that said, we played a much better second half and put ourselves in a position to compete."

"Today we need to come out of the gate strong and let our effort dictate the game. I tell my guys all the time, at the end of the game and in life in general, all you want is an opportunity. That's what we have today."

Follow along on the official Kentucky State athletics Facebook and Twitter pages for live updates from the tournament. 

For tickets and coverage of the entire tournament go to www.thesiactournament.com.