Fans help generate atmosphere for Hawks as Hoopfest offers preseason glimpse

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The opening tip of the Quincy University men's basketball team's scrimmage during Thursday night's Hawks Hoopfest signaled the return of fans to Pepsi Arena. Matt Schuckman photo

QUINCY — When you count the number of days since either the Quincy University men’s or women’s basketball team played in front of fans at Pepsi Arena, you realize how much a night to get reacclimated to the atmosphere was needed.

And if the regular-season crowd mimics the energy felt in the venerable facility Thursday night, the home-crowd advantage will return, too.

It had been 608 days since the Hawks last played in their home gym with fans in the stands. Yet, a sizable crowd with a high volume of students showed up to the Hawks Hoopfest to catch a glimpse of what to expect this winter.

And both programs showcased similar attributes — energy, execution and a knack for shooting.

The QU men open their season Nov. 12 in the GMAC/GLVC Regional Crossover at Pepsi Arena against Findlay, while the QU women head to Ursuline College in Pepper Pike, Ohio, for the GMAC/GLVC Regional Crossover on Nov. 12.

Check out the gallery of images below from the Hoopfest.

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