Dec. 17, 2007

SPRINGFIELD, MA - (December 17, 2007) - The world's finest sports museum will offer holiday fun for the whole family during the school vacation week, December 26th - January 1, 2008. From special appearances, autograph sessions, contest and games, to acrobatic displays and good ole fashion family fun, the Hall will be filled with more excitement than ever before!

The fun kicks off with an appearance by the amazing magic of Illusionist David Garrity on Wednesday, December 26th. Garrity will perform his "Magic & Beyond" one-man illusion show which features unique, theatrical and visual magic. Guests can participate and join in the fun. Following the show, kids can enjoy a mini-magic clinic where they can learn how to do a few tricks of their own.

On Thursday, December 27th its Mascot Day with some of New England's favorite mascots meeting and greeting guests. At 11:15am - guests can meet the Springfield Falcons Mascot, Screech. Then at 12:15pm - it's the World Series Champion Boston Red Sox mascot - Wally the Green Monster. Wally will sign autographs and pose for photos. At 1pm, Boston Celtics Mascot, Lucky the Leprechaun will perform his slam dunk show followed by an autograph session. Lucky is one of the NBA'S best slam dunking mascots and is renowned for his high flying acrobatics including flip slam dunks and unbelievable lay-ups!

On Friday, December 28th kids of all ages can enjoy a FREE basketball clinic with the women of American International College basketball. Whether it's brushing up on new skills or learning some new moves -the ladies of AIC will show guests the basics and have some fun.

Hitting Center Court on Saturday, December 29th the University of Massachusetts women's basketball team will help guests with their passing, shooting and dribbling skills during a mini basketball clinic beginning at 12:30pm. The clinic is FREE with admission to the museum.

Throughout the weekend and New Year, the Hall of Fame will host dozens of contests on the Museum's regulation-sized basketball court including shoot out challenges and skills challenges. Guests will have the opportunity to win tickets to the Forest Park Zoo in Springfield, the Childrens Museum of Connecticut, Old Sturbridge Village tickets, tickets to Interskate-91 in Wilbraham, Mass. and more.

The Hall of Fame is open daily during the holiday vacation week from 10am - 5pm. Regular adult admission is $16.99 and $11.99 for ages 5-15. Under 5 years is FREE. Senior Citizens can enjoy a discount admission of $13.99. Annual Pass is $39.99. Parking is FREE. For information on groups of 15 or more or multi-day tickets go to www.hoophall.com or call 877-4HOOPLA.

Located in Springfield, Massachusetts, the birthplace of basketball, The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame promotes and preserves the game of basketball at every level - professional, collegiate, international, men and women. For more information on these and other upcoming events, please visit our website at www.hoophall.com or call 1-877-4HOOPLA.