By Carol McCracken (Post # 542)

Earlier this month, the Red Claws announced that the 2010 open tryouts are on September 11 – 12, at the University of Massachusetts Boston. The announcement was made by Red Claws president and general manager, Jon Jennings.

The two-day tryout format will include team drills, individual skills work and scrimmages. Participats will be evaluated with as many as three players receiving an invitation to Portland for the Red Claws training camp in November.

The fee for the tryouts is $150 in advance and $200 at the door. Registration forms can be downloaded at www.nba.com/dleague/maine/tryoutnortheast.html. Participants will be limited and must meet NBA D-League player eligibility requirements as outlined on the registration form.

In a separate press release issued August 9, the Red Claws announced it will play a 50-game schedule, with 24 games at home, 24 on the road and a two-game showcase.

The Red Claws will open at home on Friday, November 19 with a two-game weekend set against the Austin Toros. The team will then head down 1-95 to renew a rivalry with the Springfield Armor with a trio of games before returning home December 3 to face the Fort Wayne Mad Ants.

Season tiackets are now on sale and may be purchased by calling 207-210-6655 or online at www.maineredclaws.com. Last season the Red Claws became the first NBA D-League to sell out their entire home schedule with 24-straight full houses.