Basketball Rivalry Heats Up As HCCC Hosts MVCC

Herkimer, NY (WIBX) - Tomorrow may be Valentine's Day, but two local basketball powerhouses won't be sharing the love on the court.

Mohawk Valley Community College is traveling to Herkimer County Community College's Physical Education building for a basketball game that may have playoff implications.

Last time they met in January, a fight between fans broke out in the stands. No players or coaches were involved in the fracas, but because of the fan disturbance, the game was eventually declared a 'no contest' with about 40 seconds left to play.

Donald Dutcher, Director of Athletics for HCCC says though the incident was unfortunate, the schools' rivalry is usually good-natured.

"You know, there's a great rivalry between MVCC and Herkimer," Dutcher said. "And it's not just basketball, it's every sport. When you've got two colleges that are so successful athletically, that are only 15 miles apart, the rivalry even intensifies with the great athletes that we both draw to our institutions."

Doors for the game open at 6 p.m., and will remain open until the facility reaches capacity. Tip off is set for 7 p.m. Security will be present during the game, to keep order during the game.

In addition, at halftime, HCCC's men's soccer team will be honored for winning the national title last fall. The title banner will be unveiled, and the national trophy will be presented to the college's president.