The Kent State men’s and women’s basketball teams will host their second annual Hoops ‘n’ Halloween event in the M.A.C. Center on Sunday, October 26.

The event, open to students and the community, will allow children to come on the Kent State campus and trick-or-treat in the M.A.C. Center from 5-7 p.m. During that time, fans will also get a chance to interact with players on the Kent State basketball teams. There will be on-court activities, a costume contest judged by the players, a slam-dunk contest winners of the costume contest will judge and a 10-minute co-ed scrimmage

Kent State women’s basketball coach Danielle O’Banion talked about the importance of the event.

“I think this idea that was brought to us is perfect, especially for our demographic because in women’s basketball we typically appeal to young families,” O’Banion said.

Those families will be able to get a first-hand look at what the 2014-15 Kent State men’s and women’s basketball teams will put on the court this winter.

“This is one of the best ways to get fans excited and to get a test drive before they come watch us play,” O’Banion said, “It’s a great way to get a sneak peak.”

College athletics has become a big part of the entertainment industry, O’Banion said. Kids look up to these coaches and athletes and want to feel they are a part of something special.

Kent State men’s basketball coach Rob Senderoff addressed the meaning this event has to the community.

“We try to do this for the community and for our athletes to have a good time, give back and celebrate Halloween,” Senderoff said.

All students are welcome to attend the free event and take home some free sweets.

“It would be nice for some students to come out for an hour or so and shoot some hoops and take home some candy,” Senderoff said.

Hoops ‘n’ Halloween has become a means for both teams to kick-off the preseason and get fans excited about the season, as both the men and women’s programs are looking forward to successful upcoming seasons, Senderoff and O’Banion said.

Contact Ricky Salcer at [email protected].