UE basketball’s ‘Hoopfest’ set for Oct. 18

Mark your calendars.

The University of Evansville men’s and women’s basketball programs will host their annual Hoopfest season kickoff at 6 p.m. Oct. 18 in the Ford Center.

Hoopfest features a dunk contest for men’s players and 3-point shooting challenge that involves the men and women. The first 1,000 fans through the Ford Center’s doors will get a free T-shirt, and all fans have a chance to meet players and coaches afterward.

“One of the most fun parts of the event – and it’s an hour-long event – is at the end, it almost lasts more than another hour because so many people come down there and have a chance to get autographs and speak to all the players,” said athletic director John Stanley.

“I would urge people to go and bring someone who’s young with them, because it’s an opportunity for them to sit down and meet people they’d look up to. We’re so proud of our student-athletes because they’re effective in doing that.”

Stanley said school officials are working to “shake up” the regular Hoopfest formula this year. Any new additions will be announced later.