OSHAWA, Ont. – As the UOIT men's and women's basketball programs continue to prepare for their inaugural Ontario University Athletics (OUA) season in 2019-20, they're also adding more to their list of firsts.
 
On Friday, Dec. 21 at the Campus Recreation & Wellness Centre, the Ridgebacks will welcome six teams for their first Holiday Basketball Showcase. Prior to the games, on Thursday, the students from the various high school programs will have the opportunity to tour campus and meet other Ridgebacks for a Q&A about their experience at UOIT.
 
"The two days will be a great opportunity for the basketball program to showcase UOIT and all the great things it has to offer," said women's basketball head coach Christa Eniojukan. "Recruits will be coming across Ontario and Quebec to enjoy the two days together, culminating with quality high school programs showcasing their skills in two games on Friday afternoon."
 
The day gets underway with women's basketball action featuring J. Addison School facing Lincoln Prep at 2 p.m., followed by Durham Elite against Vaughan Prep at 4 p.m.
 
To wrap up the day Oakwood Collegiate Institute vs. St. John Paul II Catholic Secondary School at 6 p.m. in men's action.
 
"This is a great opportunity for our program and the community to see some of the best up-and-coming basketball players from throughout the province," said men's basketball head coach Greg Francis. "UOIT has so many great things to offer student-athletes and it is a great chance for these high school students to see that first hand, plus be able to showcase their skillset to the community."
 
All games are open to the general public and are hosted in gyms 3-5 in the Campus Recreation & Wellness Centre.  
 
"We hope the UOIT and Durham Region community come out to enjoy the afternoon and support the players and their programs," said Eniojukan. "Our hope is that the athletes see the strong vision for the basketball team as well as the strong academic programs the university offers."