UIS Athletics is gearing up to kick off the 2026-27 Prairie Stars basketball season with its annual Tip-Off Dinner. The event is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026, at the UIS TRAC Arena. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with dinner beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Presented by Springfield Clinic and the Springfield Chamber of Commerce, this event serves as a celebration of the upcoming basketball season. The evening will gather UIS men's and women's basketball coaches, student-athletes, alumni, donors, and Prairie Stars supporters. This event continues the cherished tradition of uniting the current rosters, alumni, donors, and coaching staff, marking the start of the basketball season. Guests will have the opportunity to hear from both coaching staffs, meet the student-athletes, learn more about each team's goals, and get an inside look at what's ahead for Prairie Stars Basketball. 

With the basketball season approaching, head men's basketball coach Matt Brock is looking forward to welcoming Prairie Stars fans to TRAC.

"The UIS basketball season is right around the corner. Our guys have been working hard and are poised for a great year. We are excited to spend a night with our fans in TRAC!"

Registration prices for this event are as follows: 
Individual - $30
Children Under 10 - $15
Table of 8 - $240
Register Here

The UIS basketball season gets underway with a doubleheader on Nov. 9, as the women's team faces Purdue Northwest at 5:30 p.m., followed by the men's team hosting Millikin at 7:30 p.m.