The Appalachian State Mountaineers will soon welcome fans, alumni and community members to a special evening of basketball and camaraderie at the Holmes Convocation Center on October 21. The Tip‑Off Dinner is designed to celebrate the upcoming season while raising support for the men's basketball program.
A veteran's voice on the court
Chris Spatola, a West Point graduate and former Army officer, will serve as the keynote speaker for the event. His career spans military service, coaching at the highest levels of college basketball and a prominent role as a media analyst for ESPN and TNT Sports.
At West Point, Spatola was a four‑year starter on the Army basketball team, ranking fifth in career scoring with 1,543 points and earning a place among the Patriot League's all‑time greats. He later served as an assistant coach at Duke, contributing to a staff that captured a national championship in 2010 and secured four ACC Tournament titles.
After his military service, Spatola transitioned to broadcasting, where his analytical style — shaped by years of disciplined service — has become a staple on national networks. His insights blend tactical depth with the leadership lessons honed during his time in uniform.
Event details and community impact
The dinner will feature a seated meal, a Q&A session with the team, a silent auction and a preview from Coach Kerns outlining the upcoming season's strategy and roster expectations. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with players and staff while enjoying a night of celebration.
Tickets are available through the event portal, and table sponsorships can be purchased for $1,800, which include eight seats and prominent branding on the program and videoboard. All proceeds will be directed toward supporting Appalachian State Men’s Basketball student‑athletes through direct giving options.
Fans can stay connected with the program via social media @AppStateMBB and by downloading the Athletics App for real‑time updates, ensuring they remain informed throughout the season and beyond.