GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Sturrus Center is ready to deck the halls once again as Aquinas College hosts its annual Holiday Hoops celebration on Saturday, December 6, 2025 — a festive doubleheader blending Saints basketball, Christmas cheer, and community giving.
This year's edition promises to be one of the merriest yet, as both AQ Women's and Men's Basketball welcome Madonna University for a pair of important WHAC conference games. The Saints women tip off the festivities at 1:00 p.m., with the men's game to follow at 3:00 p.m. (or approximately 30 minutes after the conclusion of the women's contest).
Holiday Hoops has become a beloved tradition on campus, inviting fans of all ages to celebrate the season while cheering on the Saints — and 2025's version is set to unwrap even more fun. Christmas music will fill the Sturrus Center, setting the tone for a day packed with holiday joy. Santa Claus himself is expected to stop by, spreading cheer and posing for photos with fans young and old. Throughout the doubleheader, fans can enjoy Christmas cookies, participate in holiday-themed trivia, and soak in the warm, festive atmosphere that makes this event a highlight of the AQ winter calendar.
A centerpiece of Holiday Hoops each year is Aquinas' commitment to giving back. Fans are encouraged to donate two or more non-perishable food items or hygiene products to benefit the AQ Pantry. In return, donors will receive FREE admission to both games. Popular donation items include canned soup, easy mac, oatmeal cups, pasta meals, protein bars, nuts, canned beans, shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothbrushes, and other shelf-stable or essential items that directly support students in need.
The spirit of generosity, the energy of conference basketball, and the magic of Christmastime combine to make Holiday Hoops an experience unlike any other on campus. Ugly Christmas sweaters, festive outfits, elf hats, and reindeer antlers are highly encouraged — the more spirit, the better!
"The holiday season reminds us how important it is to lift each other up, and Aquinas is proud to lead with generosity and gratitude," said Deputy Athletic Director Connor Leppink. "Giving back isn't just something we do — it's part of who we are. Aquinas Athletics believes deeply in caring for our community and using sport as a vehicle for kindness, compassion, and love. If we can brighten even one person's holiday, then we've done something truly meaningful."
So mark your calendars, dust off the jingle bells, and kick off the season with back-to-back Saints basketball games, holiday treats, and plenty of cheer. Join us on Saturday, December 6 in the Sturrus Center — because nothing says Christmas at Aquinas quite like Holiday Hoops.
It's the most wonderful time… to be a Saint!
