SALISBURY – Coach James Stinson will begin his 18th season at Livingstone College on Friday when the Blue Bears travel to Institute, West Virginia to compete in the Earl Lloyd Classic. 

 Livingstone College will face West Virginia State University Friday, November 11 at 7:30 p.m. in Walker Convention Center.

"We are looking forward to competing against one of the better conferences in the U.S (Mountain East Conference)," Coach Stinson said. "The challenge of playing a previously ranked team West Virginia State University, and experienced Davis and Elkins team."

In his 17th season at Livingstone, Coach Stinson led the Blue Bears to the CIAA Semi-Finals. The Blue Bears went (15-10, 10-6) regular season record and a 2-1 post-season record.

The Blue Bears have six returners (One Starter), but Livingstone College added talented freshmen and some key transfers.

With 11 newcomers, Livingstone will look to piece the newcomers and returners together on a team that enters the season predicted to finish third in the CIAA southern division. 

Junior Guard Detionne Leach is the top leading scoring returner with 8.0 points per game. Leach looks to take a larger leadership role on this year's team. Guard Arion Broadnax (5.1 ppg) is entering his senior season and comes in averaging a little over five points per game. Junior guard Teon Tiller looks to be a top scorer this season for the Blue Bears. 

"Playing the No. 3 ranked team in the MEC, West Virginia State University, will provide a gauge of where we need to improve," said coach Stinson.