Basketball Hall of Fame Summer Sched

Basketball Hall of Fame announces summer schedule

SPRINGFIELD The world's finest sports museum, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, offers fun for the whole family during the summer season. From special appearances, coaching clinics, to NBA celebrities and special games and contest, the summer will be filled with more than ever before!

Special Events

When families are staying close to home and looking for something different to do, they can plan on a visit to the Hall of Fame to keep cool and have some fun. Beginning in June, there will be dozens of special events all free with Hall of Fame admission. Family Fun Day takes place

July 8 and August 12 and each event features a day filled with fun and games for the entire family from free throw contests to story time there is something for everyone. Guests, who visit any June 24 through August 19, will experience NBA Championship Trophy Day and will have the unique opportunity to see and get a photo with this prestigious award.

On July 9, guests can see the AAA #6 Mark Martin Nextel NASCAR Show Car from noon to 4 p.m. and enjoy a game of pulse pounding virtual racing. Those who present their AAA Card will receive a free admission when they purchase buy one full-priced admission.

Every Monday in July beginning July 10 its Mini Ball Day where the first 100 visitors will take home a souvenir mini-basketball courtesy of the Hall of Fame. Coaching Clinics will take place each and every Tuesday and Thursday beginning July 6 through August 8 with local coach Gary Mindel. This State Champion High School Coach will provide tips to all who want to sharpen their skills while learning new moves and techniques.

Back for another summer of slam dunking fun is Boston Celtics Mascot, Lucky the Leprechaun as he performs his amazing energetic show and signs autographs. Lucky is one of the NBA'S best slam dunking mascots and is renowned for his high flying acrobatics. This show will take place July 26, August 2, August 9 and August 16 at 1 p.m.

Celebrity Appearances

The Hall of Fame comes alive this summer when legends of the game and other celebrities visit the Hall of Fame during the Cingular Summer Celebrity Series.

On Tuesday, July 27, UConn's Women's Head Coach and new Class Member of 2006, Geno Auriemma, makes an appearance. At 2:30 p.m., the Hall will unveil a new exhibit dedicated to UConn Women's Basketball and Coach Auriemma's career. The event will include comments from the Coach, a question and answer session as well as the exhibit's opening.

Excitement will fill the air when the Hall hosts the "real" Glory Road Team on August 5. Guests can find out what it was really like when they won the championship during the question and answer session, meet and greet these history makers and get an autograph or two.

On August 8, the Hall pays homage to recently retired Coach John Chaney. Beginning at 1 p.m., the celebration will include comments from Chaney, Hall of Fame President, John L. Doleva as well as questions from the audience.

Rhode Island Day at the Hall of Fame will be more than just exhibits and forums featuring past players and contributors to the game from this fine state.

On August 14, Class of 2006 member and Big East Founder, David Gavitt will be on hand to help celebrate the contribution to the game of Basketball from members of the Ocean State.