MVP Arena to hold inaugural high school basketball challenge

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — High school athletes will have the chance to show off their skills on a professional court in February with the MVP Arena Challenge, the venue announced on Friday. The two-day inaugural basketball event will be held on Feb. 7 and Feb. 8 at MVP Arena in Albany.

The MVP Arena Challenge will feature four basketball games between six local high schools: Albany, Ballston Spa, Voorheesville, Ichabod Crane, Lansingburgh and Troy. The event will give players the opportunity to compete in the arena where Siena Saints men's basketball and NCAA games are held. 

“This event is about more than just basketball; it’s about creating lifelong memories for our student-athletes and their families," said Bob Belber, the MVP Arena general manager. "We’re thrilled to host these games and bring our community together to celebrate local talent."

On Feb. 7 and Feb. 8, the tournaments will kick off at 5 p.m. with doors opening at 4 p.m. Each day’s schedule is as follows: 

Game Schedule: 

• Friday, February 7: 
  • Albany vs. Ballston Spa – 5 p.m. (Girls) 
  • Albany vs. Ballston Spa – 6:30 p.m. (Boys) 
• Saturday, February 8: 
  • Voorheesville vs. Ichabod Crane – 5 p.m. (Girls) 
  • Lansingburgh vs. Troy – 6:30 p.m. (Boys) 

Tickets for the MVP Arena Challenge go on sale on Jan. 21 at 10 a.m. They can be purchased for $5 at the MVP Arena Box Office or for $5 plus fees online at Ticketmaster.com. All seating is general admission.