The Alabama State University Lady Hornets basketball team will participate in the 2012 Samford Thanksgiving Classic in Birmingham, Friday and Saturday, November 23-24.
 
“We know we are going to play some tough teams this weekend,” said assistant coach Clayton Harris.  “Samford is a well balanced team, and we are going to make sure that we play close attention to detail.  They run their offense well and they love to get out on fast breaks and we certainly can't pinch off of their shooters.  When Samford came to Alabama State last season they shot the ball outstanding, so we know that when we go to Birmingham, we need to make sure that we play our game and do the things that we are suppose to do.  We are going to have to play hard, smart and take care of business.”
 
Alabama State (0-1) is coming off of an 80-43 loss to Auburn last week during their season opener.  Samford (1-1) was on the road last week competing against Jacksonville State sliding by the Gamecocks 48-45.  UAB (4-1) hosted Arkansas Pine Buff in a 71-25 victory at the Bartow Arena, Monday night.
 
“UAB is the type of team that likes to get out on fast breaks,” said Harris.  “They like to shot a lot of three-pointers and a variation of sets.  They play a lot faster game then Samford does.  We have to play smart against Samford and we also have to make sure that we do the same thing with UAB.  We are going to have to make sure that we slow them down on fast breaks and play half court basketball.  Like I always say, we have to play defense and run our offense.”
 
The Lady Hornets will face host team of the invitational Samford Friday November, 23 at 4 p.m., and UAB on day two of the event on the 24^th at 1 p.m.