The University of New Orleans men’s basketball team will welcome the Sacramento State Hornets to Lakefront Arena for an exhibition matchup on Saturday, Oct. 18 at 1 p.m.
Basketball legends and Louisiana icons Shaquille O’Neal and Percy “Coach P” Miller have teamed up to present the “Southwest Shootout”, sponsored by the Team Hope Foundation. The event will feature not only the Privateers and Hornets, but also appearances from community leaders, professional athletes, and celebrities, including stars from the NBA and NFL.
More than 4,000 middle school students are expected to attend, with the Shootout designed to spark hope, build connections, and create opportunities for young people.
“This is bigger than basketball,” said Miller. “We want to show how coming together as a community can open doors and create possibilities. This game is about unity, empowerment, and mentorship—it’s a celebration of what we can accomplish together.”
Sacramento State enters the season under new head coach Mike Bibby, with an entirely retooled roster of 14 newcomers. The Hornets finished last season 7-25 overall and 3-15 in Big Sky play.
UNO returns sophomore standout MJ Thomas and senior leader Grant Kemp, while adding firepower in Jakevion Buckley (first-team All-Southland guard) and Coleton Benson (a sharpshooter from Texas State). The Privateers will also boast more size than ever, with seven players standing 6-8 or taller, including seven-footers William Patterson and Mathok Majok.
The Privateers officially tip off their regular season on Monday, Nov. 3 at TCU, before returning home to host SUNO on Saturday, Nov. 8 for Homecoming.
Season and single-game tickets are available now at UNOPrivateers.com/tickets or by calling (504) 280-6102.
