The Peninsula Hoop Classic returns to Niagara College on October 5th, as the Niagara Knights men's basketball programs welcomes the Brock Badgers to the Welland Campus Athletic Centre. In support of the United Way of South Niagara. With the host venue alternating each year, this will be the fourth time that the classic has been played in Welland. The last time the event was hosted by Niagara College, all proceeds were donated to the United Way generating over $2,500 for the organization.
While the game will benefit a tremendous organization off the court, on the court it will be one of the first chances for Head Coach Keith Vassell to see his team in game action ahead of the 2016-17 OCAA regular season. With a strong mix of veterans and rookies, it will be an opportunity to evaluate his roster against one of the nation's strongest post-secondary programs. Jordan McDonald, an OCAA All-Rookie a year ago, will ead the Knights into the exhibition season. The game will be the third of the exhibition season for the Knights, who host the Centennial Colts on September 28th.
In last season's contest the Badgers defeated the Knights 98-68. The Badgers are coming off one of their best university seasons in recent memory, having spent a good chunk of the 2015-16 season ranked nationally. Despite falling short in the OUA playoffs, Brock is looking to enter the 2016-17 season with a vengeance, and the matchup with Niagara will be a measuring stick.
Niagara College's Director of Athletics & Recreation Matthew Davies is excited to see the event back in Welland this season. "The Peninsula Hoop Classic is now a staple on the basketball calendar in Niagara," said Davies, "Not only does it allow us to compete our regional rivals, but it benefits a great cause at the same time."
Admission to the Peninsula Hoops Classic will be free for all students and those under the age of 17. Admission for all others will be $5, with all proceeds benefitting the United Way of South Niagara. In addition, all spectators are encouraged to make a donation to the United Way, who will be in hand prior to the event.