PLEASANTVILLE, N.Y. – The wait is over—basketball season has arrived in Setter Nation! Pace University Athletics is bringing the energy back to Goldstein Health and Fitness Center with Setters Madness: Luau Edition on Wednesday, October 22, beginning at 9:00 p.m.

This year's event marks the official kickoff to the 2025–26 men's and women's basketball seasons, promising an unforgettable night of tropical fun, high-energy performances, and true Pace pride. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to join in the festivities as the gym transforms into an island-style paradise to celebrate the start of another exciting campaign.

The "Luau Edition" will feature games, contests, and performances throughout the night, hosted by emcees Jack Kern and Emily Cineus. Fans will enjoy competitions such as the 3-Point Shootout, Hot Shot Challenge, and the crowd-favorite Dunk Contest, along with mini-games and chances to win prizes, including Buffalo Wild Wings gift cards. The night will also include the Hawaiian Dress-Up Race and Limbo Showdown, adding to the fun and lighthearted spirit that makes Setters Madness a can't-miss tradition.

Performances by the Pace Dance Team, Cheer Team, and a special tropical-themed playlist will keep the energy high from start to finish. The event will also feature introductions of both the Pace Women's Basketball Team, led by Head Coach Carrie Seymour, and the Pace Men's Basketball Team, led by Head Coach Matt Healing, as they prepare to begin their respective 2025-26 campaigns.

In true Setter spirit, Pace Athletics will once again team up with campus partners to make the evening special. The Pace Student Government Association (SGA), Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), Pace Fit, Programming Board, and the Dominican Student Association are all joining forces to help create the perfect night of campus celebration. Attendees can even enjoy limited-edition Pina Colada smoothies from Pace Fit and other giveaways while supplies last.

As always, the night will end in style, with fans joining the teams and coaches in cheering, chanting, and showing their Setter pride as the lights go down and the music turns up. Let's pack the gym, bring the energy, and kick off the basketball season.

For more information, visit www.pacesettersathletics.com  and follow Pace Athletics on Facebook (T-Bone, Official Mascot of Pace University Athletics), Twitter (@PaceUAthletics), and Instagram (@PaceAthletics).