Before Auburn's basketball squads have a chance to take a crack at other opponents, they must face themselves first.
A year after Auburn Arena had its official grand opening, Auburn's basketball program will host Tiger Hoop Madness this Friday at 7 p.m.
"I am extremely excited about the tipoff of basketball season with Tiger Hoops Madness," said men's coach Tony Barbee. "It's a great way to welcome back the guys and meet the new players."
The event marks the first day fans can see Auburn's basketball teams and the first day the NCAA allows teams to practice.
The arena doors open at 6 p.m. with activities beginning at 7 p.m. Tiger Hoops Madness is free to the public. All seating is general admission, and fans may enter through the main entrance or the scholarship entrance. The student section will be available for all students who present an Ignited card.
Indoor activities will include team introductions and appearances by the Auburn cheerleaders, Tiger Paws, Pep Band and Aubie.
The men's team will conduct a slam dunk contest and an intra-squad scrimmage, while the women's team will have a three-point shootout and dribble battle.
"We are very excited about this event and the opportunity to show our fans what they can expect when they come out to Auburn Arena this season," said women's coach Nell Fortner. "It is going to be a great year for Auburn basketball, and we can't wait to get it started."
Prior to the indoor festivities, there will be Fan Fest on the lawn outside the arena's main entrance. The Fan Fest at 5 p.m. will feature inflatable games for kids, a face painter and a balloon artist. Both the men's and women's basketball teams will also be available for an autograph session beginning at 5:45 p.m.
In addition, all fans in the arena will have a chance to win various prizes throughout the event, including two pairs of tickets to the Auburn vs. Florida football game. Other prizes include various Under Armour items and a free round of golf at any Alabama Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail course.
The parking lots surrounding Auburn Arena will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The lot beside Beard-Eaves Memorial Coliseum will not be available.
"It is going to be a fun-filled evening for the students, our fans and my team," Barbee said. "There is going to be plenty of planned events and surprises for everybody. Get there early for a good seat."
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