The Basketballs Are Bouncing
College basketball is officially back on the UIS campus! Both the men's and women's teams have already taken the floor for several non-conference matchups as they gear up for the rugged Great Lakes Valley Conference schedule ahead.

This season, three of our first four GLVC games will be played at home before we break for final exams, and several of these contests could shape the trajectory of the year. Here's your guide to a big opening stretch inside The TRAC. Monday, Dec. 1 – William Jewell
Women at 5:30 p.m. | Men at 7:30 p.m.
After opening league play on the road at UMSL over Thanksgiving weekend, the Prairie Stars return home for a rare Monday-night doubleheader against William Jewell. UIS went 0–4 against the Cardinals last season, so this one comes with built-in motivation.

We're launching the conference season with a White Out, so wear your white UIS gear and help set the tone for December basketball. Thursday, Dec. 4 – McKendree
Women at 5:30 p.m. | Men at 7:30 p.m.
Just three days later, one of our longest-standing rivals arrives on campus. UIS and McKendree have been battling on the hardwood since the very beginning of both programs.

• Women's series: 52nd meeting (dating back to 1995–96)
• Men's series: 41st meeting (dating back to December 2002 in Kevin Gamble's first season)

It's also Hy-Vee Youth Sports Night! All kids through eighth grade wearing a sports jersey get in free. Bring the young athletes in your life for a great night of college hoops. Saturday, Dec. 6 – Maryville
Women at 1 p.m. | Men at 3 p.m.
We'll close the homestand with a Saturday afternoon matchup against Maryville. Wear your navy as we turn The TRAC into a Blue Out.

Maryville's women's team enters as one of the GLVC's top contenders after reaching last year's conference championship game. On the men's side, UIS looks to extend a three-game winning streak against the Saints after sweeping them last season.

This is a can't-miss early-season doubleheader with major conference implications. Why the Excitement? Because This Year's Teams Are Built to Compete.
Both programs have reloaded with strong rosters—and plenty of new faces ready to make an impact. 

• Men's Basketball: A group of 2024–25 returners step into new roles, supported by a talented influx of freshmen and transfers.
• Women's Basketball: With only three returners from last year, the team features two experienced graduate transfers and a promising freshman class.

And both teams share a unique storyline—the Rice family connection.

• Kayla Rice, an All-GLVC performer and the leading returning scorer, anchors a young women's squad with veteran poise and leadership.
• Jordan Rice, her older brother and a 2023–24 All-GLVC selection, returned to the floor this year and immediately made noise with a 30-point season opener.

Their combined presence is one of the most compelling storylines in the conference. Join Us at TRAC
College basketball on our campus is special. TRAC is one of the best venues in the GLVC, and we're committed to making it one of the most energized home courts in the league.
 
Bring your friends, bring your family, and come experience these early-season GLVC matchups. I'm confident that once you see the atmosphere—and the talent on the floor—you'll be back when conference play resumes at home on Friday, January 2.

Let's make this season one to remember. Go Prairie Stars!