VILLANOVA, Pa., - Its date falls a little earlier on the calendar than it has in the recent past thanks in part to an NCAA rule change. But Villanova Basketball's signature season kickoff event "Hoops Mania" promises to live up to its storied past when it takes place this Friday evening at Finneran Pavilion.
 
Doors open for ticket-holders at 6 p.m. The full show is set to begin at 7:30 p.m.
 
As always, the night will highlight the introduction of the Men's and Women's Basketball teams to their fellow students inside a packed Finn. The night will also feature a 3-point shoot out including representatives of both the men's and women's teams along with student groups including the Nation.
 
The Villanova Men will hold an intrasquad scrimmage that will be followed by a dunk contest.
 
The finale will feature a mini-concert by a recording artist whose identity is not revealed until show time. Previous performers have included 50 Cent, Nicki Minaj, Rick Ross and Drake.
 
The Wildcats women team advanced to the final of the WBIT last March, posting 22 wins along the way. Denise Dillion's squad has earned 52 victories in the past two seasons and reached the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 in 2023. The Wildcats open the 2024-25 regular season at the Finn on Sunday, Nov. 10, vs. Wake Forest.
 
The Villanova men begin their third season under head coach Kyle Neptune led by returning stalwarts Eric Dixon and Jordan Longino. The 'Cats host Lafayette on Monday, Nov. 4 in their regular season opener. That will be preceded by a charity exhibition contest at Villanova on Sunday, Oct. 27 vs. Robert Morris.