When most people think of tailgating, they think about Penn State football. Tonight, however, it will be basketball that is the focus of the party.

Before the men's basketball game with West Virginia, the Basketball Club will hold a tailgate party at the Nittany Lion Inn. The party, which begins at 7, is for members only and should last until around 8:45.

Club members will also hang students' banners for tonight's game. Arlene Tepsic, vice president, said banners can be brought to the west stands in Rec Hall at 6 p.m.

Along with the pre-game tailgate, the club will also conduct its usual halftime hospitality room and a post-game social at the Inn. These get togethers allow club members to meet and talk with the players and coaches.

Founded 16 years ago, the Basketball Club is a group designed to promote interest in the basketball program at Penn State and support it, Tepsic said. The club consists of about 375 members. Of these, 10 to 15 percent are located out of the State College area.

"There hasn't been a basketball tradition here and we're trying to inspire an interest in basketball," Tepsic said. "Along with promoting basketball, we help keep the alumni in touch with the program."

Tepsic said the main thrust of the club is to get fans to be more enthusiastic and more supportive of the team. To do this, the club sponsors many activities.

Tonight's tailgate party is just one of those activities. It will feature food and drink along with the Nittany Lion mascot, cheerleaders and members of the pep band.

And an annual golf tournament is sponsored to benefit the John Egli memorial scholarship fund. Egli coached the basketball team from 1954-1968 and compiled a 187-135 record. He directed Penn State to its last NCAA tournament appearance in 1965.

The club also sponsors bus trips for some of the away games, including Saturday's game at West Virginia. Tepsic said the trip is open to non-members and sign ups for the trip will be held at the game tonight.

Coach Bruce Parkhill, who has always lobbied for fan support in his six years at Penn State, greatly appreciates the club's efforts. And, although he believes the club's support is important, the sixth-year coach does not overplay this importance.

"We want it low key because we don't want to soak them for a lot of money," he said. Parkhill is consulted on club activities and is involved in the final decisions.

Financially, Tepsic said the club's only involvement is, "buying something extra for the team that would enhance their morale." For example, the club may buy new warmups if the team participates in a tournament, Tepsic said.

Club size has been increasing 20-25 percent each year for the past few years and new members are always welcome, Tepsic said. Membership benefits include a postseason banquet for the team, a discount on away bus trips and preferred location season tickets.

The club also features a newsletter and a club tailgate at every home football game.

Membership applications can be obtained from the Men's Basketball office. The yearly cost is $30 for a family, $20 for individuals and $10 for students.