Hoopfest returns to ISU tonight at 7 o'clock at Redbird Arena. (Photo by B Corbin/You Name It Sports)

By Bryan Bloodworth

NORMAL - Illinois State basketball fans can get their first glimpse of both the men's and women's teams tonight during Hoopfest, which begins at 7 o'clock at Redbird Arena.

The event, which is free, will include 10-minute scrimmages by both teams, 3-point shooting and dunk contests along with an autograph session.

"It's a great opportunity for the fans to get to know our players a little bit and see a couple of our guys for the first time," said ISU men's coach Dan Muller. "We want to generate some excitement for our program and the women's program. It also allows the players to get out in front of a crowd and have some fun."

Will ISU fans get a sense for what they can expect from the men's team in Muller's first season during Hoopfest?

"Absolutely not," quipped Muller. "As a matter of fact, they will probably get a sense of bad basketball for 10 minutes. When you do something like this you can't have a lot of structure. It will be a relaxed game with little defense. Fans might get a sense for some of the skill development we've done, though."

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and one lucky fan will have a chance to win $10,000 in the Papa John's "Money Ball" shot contest from halfcourt during the event.

Bryan Bloodworth can be reached at bryan.bloodworth@cumulus.com