NEC Media Day: Ray Floriani's Photo Essay

Brooklyn, NY ­- The Barclays Center once again hosted a media day on Tuesday. The Northeast Conference held its annual get-together at the Atlantic Avenue edifice. Given the NEC’s history and tradition of which local schools LIU and St. Francis (literally walking distance away) have played such a big part, it is only fitting that the NEC calls Barclays home for this event.

One of the unique features of this 10-member meeting is the representation by both the men’s and women’s programs. Many conferences will have separate dates and/or locations for their respective programs. The NEC chooses to include both as showcases for all their programs. Another feature is the inclusion of a player as well as a head coach. Again, some conferences choose to have the head coach represent the school while the NEC makes players available as well, providing the perspective of those on the court during conference battles.

As pointed out previously many quotes from coaches, and players alike, can be of the scripted variety. At the NEC, there was an opportunity to quiz the men’s coaches regarding the shortening of the shot clock from 35 to 30 seconds. On the women’s side, the mentors of the respective teams were asked their opinions of the four-quarter game format and dealing with less timeouts. In both situations, the responses were thought-provoking, opening the door for further debate.

In a conference thriving on uncertainty (in a good way, referring to the league race) and competitive balance, you can believe the coaches when they unanimously agreed that the first game on the schedule could not come soon enough. All in all, there was no shortage of optimism on the part of coaches, and players, at what is a unique and anticipated event on the pre­season calendar.

The scoreboard message welcoming the Northeast Conference to Barclays Center:

Tim Capstraw and the NEC Front Row crew hard at work:

Ray with one of his favorite players, (the impartiality takes a respite) Erika Livermore of Fairleigh Dickinson:

NEC commissioner Noreen Morris chats with Central Connecticut assistant, and former Blue Devils great, Obie Nwadike:

Wagner head coach Bashir Mason and senior guard Dwaun Anderson meet the media. Joining them, although partially obscured, is director of athletic communications and men's basketball media contact Brian Morales:

The court below is ready for the Brooklyn Nets' season opener Wednesday night:

The FDU men's and women's traveling parties get together outside Barclays Center for a post-media day group photo op: