On Wednesday, Penn State men’s and women’s basketball hosted their annual ‘Ball at East Hall’ event to spark excitement going into Thursday’s student season ticket sale. The event brought students from all over campus to enjoy an electric-spirited night of basketball with the university’s varsity teams.

The night began with the arrival of students and introductions to the players from each respective basketball team.

Both Coach Rhoades and Coach Kieger, after their teams were announced, made speeches and encouraged students to show up and be a presence at their games this season.

As the night went on, the entertainment picked up. Students were challenged with making a daunting half-court shot for a prize. No student was able to accomplish this feat, so Coach Rhoades gave the $500 cash prize to an unsuspecting student spectator.

After the initial engagement, the skills competition began. The challenge was to make a layup, a 3-pointer, and a half-court shot in the allotted time of 45 seconds. Students competed alongside Kiyomi McMiller, Dominick Stewart, Shayla Smith, Kayden Mingo, Nyla McFadden, and Freddie Dilione V.

To put a bow on the night, Penn State students competed against the student-athletes in a heated game of knockout. Students faced off against Reggie Grodin, Shaelyn Steele, Justin Houser, Amiya Evans, Josh Reed, and Vitoria Santana.

Both teams’ season campaigns will begin on Monday, November 3rd, at the Bryce Jordan Center. The Nittany Lions will tip off against the Fairfield Stags, while the Lady Lions will take on the Bucknell Bison.