College hoops are coming to the recently built Choctaw Central High School campus.
The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians announced Tuesday that the school will host a women’s basketball exhibition between Mississippi State and Louisiana Tech on Sunday, Oct. 18. The game will be played at 4 p.m. at Tushka Arena on the campus of Choctaw Central High School.
“This event reflects our commitment to supporting our students and investing in opportunities that inspire future generations,” said Chief Cyrus Ben. “Our growing partnership with Mississippi State University continues to create meaningful opportunities for our Tribe and community, and we are proud to bring Division I women’s basketball to Choctaw as part of that collaboration.
“As one of the first premier events held in Tushka Arena, this exhibition marks a special milestone for our community, and we look forward to welcoming many more athletic and community events in the future.”
Mississippi State women’s basketball head coach Sam Purcell says he is grateful for the opportunity to get some extra reps against a good team, while also being a part of history for the Tribe’s school.
“We’re grateful to Chief Ben and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians for welcoming our program to Choctaw Central,” Purcell said. “Our players love getting out and playing in front of the people of this state, and to be part of the first premier basketball game ever played in Tushka Arena makes it even more special.”
“Louisiana Tech is a well-coached team that will test us, and that’s exactly what we need before the season tips off,” Purcell continued. “We hope the Choctaw Central students and the whole community will come out, because this is going to be a fun afternoon of basketball.”
Fans are encouraged to arrive early and enter an hour before tipoff. Admission costs $10 and can be purchased here.