IOWA CITY, Iowa – The University of Iowa Athletics Department will host “Hawkeye Hoops from Downtown presented by HyVee” on Friday, Oct. 17, at the outdoor basketball court behind Burge Residence Hall.

The hour-long event, which will begin at 5:30 p.m. (CT), will give fans the opportunity to get their first look at the 2025-26 Hawkeye men’s and women’s basketball teams. It is the unofficial tipoff to the upcoming season.

Fans will get an up-close look at the Hawkeyes, which are led by first-year men’s coach Ben McCollum and second-year women’s coach Jan Jensen. The evening will include player introductions, fan and player contests, prizes and music.

“I am looking forward to joining forces with our women’s team in the “Hawkeye Hoops from Downtown” event,” said McCollum. “This will be a great opportunity to build excitement for our programs and for our players to interact with the Hawks Nest, students and our community.  It should be a great on-campus event.”

“We’re so excited to see our fans at the Hawkeye Hoops from Downtown event with our men’s basketball team,” said Jensen. “The best fanbase in the country will get a chance to see our new players and teams for the very first time. We look forward to seeing everyone on Oct. 17.”

The event is free and open to all.  Parking is available in any of the downtown Iowa City parking ramps.  Parking is free for the first hour with each additional hour costing $2.