Eastern’s mascot finally has an official name Dave Kidwell said.

However, the new name of the mascot will not be known until the first home basketball game of the spring semester.

“We’re going to do something at the first home game Jan. 16,” Kidwell said. “So we will make the official announcement then.”

Eastern’s men’s basketball team will host Ohio Valley Conference preseason favorite Murray State.

Last week a committee, led by Kidwell, chose the name of the mascot based on suggestions he received from students. Kidwell did not receive as many suggestions as he hoped, but the committee was still able to chose a suitable name.

“We got enough (suggestions) to make a good decision,” Kidwell said. “But with everything the more the merrier.”

Kidwell said the committee was able to meet its main criteria for the new name of the mascot, selecting a name that is non-gender specific.

“It’s one that’s suitable for both genders.” he said. “We thought it was appropriate.”

According to Kidwell, the committee came to the decision with little disagreement.

“I think everybody was agreeable,” Kidwell said. “It’s nice when everybody agrees.”