Here are some things to know about the Minnesota Stars, the state's new professional soccer team, which has its home opener at 7 pm. Saturday at the National Sports Center.

Q Is this team essentially the old Thunder with a new name?

A No. The Stars are in no way affiliated with the now-defunct Thunder. They are owned by the National Sports Center Foundation. However, nine former Thunder players are on the roster, among them standout forward Johnny Menyongar. Manny Lagos is in his first year as a head coach. The Stars are 1-2.

Q The Stars are part of the new, 12-team United States Soccer Federation-sanctioned Division 2 professional league. What is that?

A This offseason, several teams left the United Soccer League's First Division to form the North American Soccer League. Hard feelings ensued, and the USSF refused to sanction either league until they agreed to work together. So they reached a one-year agreement to operate as a unified league with two conferences.

Q What will attending a game cost my family?

A General admission tickets cost $8 for kids 14 and younger and $13 for adults. GA tickets purchased up to 48 hours before a game cost $2 less. Reserved seats cost $20. On-field seats cost $30. Parking at the National Sports Center is free.

DAVID LA Vaque

Team schedule and roster are in Scoreboard, C11.