This annual event is dedicated to honoring both current and former members of the nation’s armed forces and featured several tributes throughout the night.
The evening began with Brig. Gen. Mark Koeniger, 711th Human Performance Wing commander, delivering the official game ball to the Flyers mascot, Rudy, at half court prior to the 7 p.m. tip off.
The Air Force Band of Flight’s vocalist, Staff Sgt. Joanne Griffin, sang the national anthem. The Wright-Patterson Honor Guard presented of the colors, and 20 students from the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine and 15 University of Dayton ROTC students suspended a large U.S. flag in the center of the court.
At halftime, Koeniger administered the oath of enlistment to 18 future Airmen. The oath of enlistment is something that every service member must promise and adhere to for his or her entire military career.
Two members of the Wright-Patterson AFB basketball team, Kyle Stankowski and Cedric Thomas, participated in a three-point shooting contest against a recorded video of UD player Frankie Policelli.
UD Arena is undergoing a $72 million facelift, which includes wi-fi, 360-degree main concourse and replacement of all 13,450 seats within the venue.
The Big Hoopla NCAA First Four Local Organizing Committee donated 150 tickets for Airmen to attend the game.
The Flyers will host the Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons at the UD Arena Nov. 16.
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