COLUMBUS, OHIO -- Game time on the horizon for Colgate University’s men’s basketball team – that plays in the NCAA tournament against the Tennessee Volunteers in Columbus, Ohio Friday.

The Raiders practiced at Nationwide Arena out in Columbus earlier Thursday to get used to their surroundings in a bigger facility than they are accustomed to playing in.

Tennessee may come in with a slightly better advantage playing in a large space - Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville seats 21,678 fans, while Cotterell Court in Hamilton seats 1,750.

While not many people may have picked Colgate to beat Tennessee in their brackets, the Raiders have blocked out all the outside noise, and are focused solely on enjoying this experience.

“The last week plus has been a really exciting time for us. I think back to when I was a first time head coach eight years ago, I didn't necessarily think about winning championships, just giving the players the experiences I had as a student-athlete. I'm extremely proud of their efforts over the course of this season and the offseason. I know they're super excited to be here and for the opportunity that we have tomorrow afternoon,” said Head Coach Matt Langel.

The NCAA matchup starts at 2:45 p.m. Friday.