Finally, it is here. The 2012-13 Purdue Men's Basketball season tips off tonight at 7pm in Mackey Arena as we take on Patriot League favorite Bucknell. I'll be in the building tonight since I couldn't sell my tickets, so I'll be live tweeting from Section 103 next to the Paint Crew.

This should be a solid litmus test for Purdue. Bucknell is a very good, experienced team that returns most of its roster from a 25-win team. They nearly made the NCAAs last season and a victory over Purdue could be a resume boost needed to get an unprecedented at large bid from the Patriot League. Even then, they are one of the favorite to win that conference led by reigning Patriot League Player of the Year Mike Muscala.

If Purdue wins in blowout fashion it is likely a very good sign for the future because we're playing a likely NCAA Tournament team that will be an upset threat in March if they are in the field. This is not your typical opener, so let's Boiler Up.

For the record, Big Ten Digital Network is broadcasting the game with a replay Saturday night on BTN at 8pm.