Grand Valley officials announced today that the Lakers will host Ferris State University in men's and women's basketball at Van Andel Arena January 29 in the "131 Showdown" presented by Amway.
Tipoff for the women's game is set for 6 p.m., with the men's game
to follow at 8 p.m. A portion of the proceeds from the event will be
donated to the Van Andel Institute as part of the Community for a Cure
Purple Game.
"We were looking for an opportunity to get a Grand Valley
State athletic event in downtown Grand Rapids and with an incredible
venue in Van Andel Arena available, it seemed like a natural fit that
we have West Michigan rivals meet in the 131 Showdown," said Tim
Selgo, director of athletics. "We are also extremely excited to
have Amway and the Van Andel Institute join us in the presentation of
the 131 Showdown. Amway and Van Andel are preeminent names in West
Michigan and it shows their commitment to the West Michigan
communities."
David Madiol, manager at Amway, said sponsorship of the 131
Showdown "exemplifies Amway's commitment to building
relationships with the community, and our efforts to make a positive
difference in West Michigan."
The Van Andel Institute has been extremely involved in the
Community for a Cure Purple Games. Since 2009, more than 30 college
and high school sports teams have raised nearly $150,000 to support
cancer research.
Tickets for the 131 Showdown can be purchased by calling (800)
745-3000 or visiting ticketmaster.com. More information
is online at www.131showdown.com.
