Community celebration to feature youth basketball, celebrity competition, first responder recognition, giveaways, halftime entertainment, and family fun
PINE BLUFF, AR – The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Athletics Department and the Golden Lions men's and women's basketball programs invite fans, alumni, students, supporters, and the Pine Bluff community to attend the inaugural Built4IT Celebrity Basketball Game on Saturday, Aug. 1, at H.O. Clemmons Arena.
The event promises an afternoon of basketball, entertainment, community engagement, and family fun as former professional athletes, collegiate stars, and Golden Lion legends return to the court for an exciting celebration benefiting the community.
Doors open at 12 p.m., giving fans an opportunity to enjoy pregame festivities before the action begins. The afternoon tips off with a Youth Basketball Showcase at 1 p.m., followed by the Built4IT Celebrity Basketball Game at 3 p.m.
The celebrity game will feature appearances by former NFL, NBA, WNBA, Major League Baseball, University of Arkansas Razorbacks, and UAPB Golden Lions athletes competing in a fun, high-energy matchup.
Throughout the day, fans will enjoy a variety of activities designed for all ages, including:
- Youth Basketball Showcase
- Celebrity Basketball Game
- Recognition of local first responders
- Halftime entertainment
- Interactive fan contests
- Giveaways throughout the event
- Prize drawings and special gifts
- Music and family-friendly activities
- Opportunities to meet former professional and collegiate athletes
"This event is about much more than basketball," said UAPB Head Men's Basketball Coach Solomon Bozeman. "It's an opportunity to unite our community, celebrate those who serve us every day, inspire our young people, and showcase the pride and tradition of Golden Lion Basketball. We invite everyone to come out, have fun, and be a part of this special day."
UAPB Women's Basketball Head Coach Erica Leak believes the event will leave a lasting impact on the community.
"This is a great opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate the game of basketball while inspiring the next generation of student-athletes," said Leak. "From our youth showcase to honoring our first responders and watching some of the biggest names in sports return to the court, this event is about bringing families together, creating lasting memories, and showcasing the pride of Golden Lion Athletics. We look forward to seeing everyone in H.O. Clemmons Arena on August 1."
The Built4IT Celebrity Basketball Game is designed to strengthen the connection between UAPB Athletics and the surrounding community while providing an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages. Families are encouraged to arrive early and spend the afternoon enjoying exciting basketball, entertainment, contests, and community fellowship.
Tickets are on sale now. Fans can purchase tickets by clicking the ticket link below or by contacting the UAPB Athletics Ticket Office at 870-575-8601 for additional information.
Whether you're a lifelong Golden Lion supporter or looking for a fun family outing before the fall sports season begins, the Built4IT Celebrity Basketball Game promises an exciting day filled with basketball, entertainment, and Golden Lion pride.
Event Information
Built4IT Celebrity Basketball Game
Date: Saturday, Aug. 1, 2026
Doors Open: 12:00 p.m.
Youth Basketball Showcase: 1:00 p.m.
Celebrity Basketball Game: 3:00 p.m.
Location: H.O. Clemmons Arena
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Tickets: Click here to purchase tickets. For additional information, contact the UAPB Athletics Ticket Office at 870-575-8601.
For additional event information, follow UAPB Men's Basketball and UAPB Athletics on social media and visit UAPBLionsRoar.com.
About Built4IT
The Built4IT Celebrity Basketball Game brings together former professional athletes, collegiate legends, community leaders, and fans for an exciting day of basketball, entertainment, and community engagement. The event promotes youth participation, honors local heroes, and celebrates the positive impact athletics can have throughout the Pine Bluff community while showcasing the tradition and excellence of Golden Lion Basketball.
