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Dunphy applauds Owls' fans

It was wonderful to see so many fans in the stands for our win over Georgetown. Clearly the atmosphere contributed to the team's success and for that I am grateful. The support for our team on that night was special, and made the victory more meaningful as the entire Temple community shared in the win.

Now the challenge is to recreate that environment through the remainder of the season.

Temple University touches so many in the Delaware valley, more than any school in the city. And Temple basketball, from the days of Harry Litwack through the quarter century under my predecessor, John Chaney, have provided great memories and have been a rallying point for Owl Nation.

There is nothing more pleasing to a coach or a player than to win games in front of a packed house. We hope our team is doing our part. Lavoy Allen, Juan Fernandez, Ramone Moore and company have helped win 12 straight home games. The second longest winning streak at the Liacouras Center. What is missing, for many of the games, is the atmosphere.

We had it for the Georgetown, Kansas and Villanova games, but we would love to have it for every game. The Liacouras Center is one the finest arenas for college basketball in the country and it is an imposing home court to visiting teams when it is full.

Hopefully it will start Saturday when we take on Northern Illinois at 2 p.m. The Huskies have the nation's leading scorer in Xavier Silas, and will be a formidable challenge. But, with your support, we will hopefully be able to continue our home court streak.

If you are able to come, please think about bringing a new coat or unwrapped, non-violent toy for kids ages 2-14. Our marketing team will be collecting these items to be donated to The Salvation Army. All fans who donate an item will then be entered into a drawing to win a signed basketball from our team. In addition, any fan who brings a canned food item to the game will receive discounted tickets at the box office.

Thanks again for all of your support and Go Owls!!!