OU Credit Union O'rena | The Blacktop
Experience another exciting season of Golden Grizzlies basketball at the OU Credit Union O'rena — better known as The Blacktop. This year’s home schedule is packed with can’t-miss theme nights, exclusive giveaways, and interactive fan experiences designed to make every game day unforgettable. Grab your friends, wear your black and gold, and be part of the energy that makes Oakland Basketball one of the best atmospheres in the Horizon League.
Opening Night
Saturday, November 15 vs. Defiance | 3:00 PM
Tip off a new season with the Golden Grizzlies as we welcome fans back to The Blacktop. Be among the first to catch this year’s team in action and set the tone for a strong season ahead.
Giveaways: Team posters, Buffalo Wild Wings rally towels, and reusable Oakland-branded bags for the first 100 fans.
Fan Experience: Fans are invited onto the court after the game for post game shots and photos.
Tropical Day
Wednesday, December 3 vs. Purdue Fort Wayne | 7:00 PM
Escape the Michigan winter and step into a tropical atmosphere at The Blacktop. Enjoy summer vibes, upbeat music, and a fun night of basketball under the palm trees.
Giveaways: Leis for fans.
Highlights: “Best Tropical Outfit” social media contest, halftime hula hoop and limbo challenges
Military Appreciation Day
Saturday, December 6 vs. Toledo | 3:00 PM
(Doubleheader with Women’s Basketball)
Oakland Athletics proudly honors our nation’s heroes with a special afternoon dedicated to veterans and active-duty service members. Join us as we salute those who serve and protect.
Giveaways: Camo bucket hats for students
Veteran and Active-Duty Service Members
Free Admission
All veterans and active service members are invited to attend both games at no cost.
VIP Suite Access
Complimentary food will be available in our VIP Suite. To guarantee suite access, please RSVP by Saturday, November 22 (two weeks prior to game day).
Exclusive Gift
All veterans and active service members will receive an Oakland-branded koozie as a token of our appreciation.
Walk-Ups Welcome
Walk-up attendance is encouraged on game day.
RSVP
Community School Night / Kid’s Day Takeover
Sunday, January 4 vs. Robert Morris | 3:00 PM
The next generation of Golden Grizzlies takes center stage. Local schools are invited to join in a day full of fun, learning, and basketball excitement.
Highlights: Discounted youth tickets for ages 12 and under, pregame activities, and opportunities for kids to participate in game-day roles like announcers, reporters, and more.
Giveaways: Temporary tattoos, stickers, coloring sheets, and rally towels.
Fan Experience: Post game shots on the court for all youth attendees.
Sneakerhead Night
Friday, January 9 vs. Cleveland State | 7:00 PM
Bring your best kicks and your Oakland pride for a night celebrating sneaker culture and basketball style.
Giveaways: Sneaker-themed key chains and stickers.
Fan Showcase: In-arena sneaker showcase, live cam features throughout the night, and a “Best Sneakers” contest with prizes for the top look.
Motor City Night
Sunday, January 11 vs. Wright State | 3:00 PM
Show your Detroit Pro Sports Pride at The Blacktop for Motor City Madness. Rep your favorite Detroit Professional sports team and join us for a celebration of the city’s rich sports tradition.
Giveaways: Branded items from Detroit’s pro teams — including the Tigers, Pistons, Lions, Red Wings, and Detroit City FC.
Fan Experience: Post game shots on the court.
Faculty & Staff Appreciation Night
Wednesday, January 21 vs. IU Indy | 7:00 PM
Join us as we thank the incredible Oakland University faculty and staff for their dedication and impact on campus.
Highlights: Discounted admission for all faculty and staff.
Coaches vs. Cancer Night
Sunday, February 1 vs. Northern Kentucky | 3:00 PM
Support the fight against cancer alongside the Golden Grizzlies and the American Cancer Society.
Giveaways: “Beat Cancer” pins and “I Play For” cards.
Greek Night
Thursday, February 12 vs. Youngstown State | 7:00 PM
Greek Life takes over The Blacktop for a night of campus pride and friendly competition.
Giveaways: Buffalo Wild Wings rally towels and Oakland lanyards.
Halftime Event: The annual Wing Showdown presented by Buffalo Wild Wings, where fraternity and sorority members compete for chapter bragging rights and prizes.
Space Jam Night
Friday, February 20 vs. Green Bay | 7:00 PM
Step into the world of Space Jam for a night of nostalgia, music, and basketball.
Giveaways: “Grizz’s Secret Stuff” Space Jam water bottles for the first 300 students.
Pontiac Initiative / Star Wars Day
Sunday, February 22 vs. Milwaukee | 3:00 PM
The Force meets the Golden Grizzlies for Star Wars Day, in collaboration with the Pontiac community.
Giveaways: Star Wars key chains and stickers.
Highlights: Character meet-and-greets, themed trivia, special performances, and music from across the galaxy.
Black Out / Senior Day
Saturday, February 28 vs. Detroit Mercy | 3:00 PM
End the regular season with one of the most anticipated games of the year — the annual Black Out and Senior Day celebration.
Theme: Fans are encouraged to wear black and pack The Blacktop.
Giveaways: Black pom-poms, team photo cards, and “Let’s Go Oakland” buttons.
Highlights: Pregame senior recognition ceremony and post game speeches, photos, and autographs to honor this year’s graduating Golden Grizzlies.
Giveaways are while supplies last.
