A university gymnasium isn’t big enough to contain this rivalry.

The Brock Badgers men’s and women’s basketball teams will take on regional rivals the McMaster Marauders on Wednesday, Feb. 24, but for the second time this season, the Brock home games will be played at the Meridian Centre in downtown St. Catharines. 

Another record-breaking crowd is expected for the doubleheader between the two Ontario basketball powerhouses.

“We’re thrilled to be playing at the Meridian Centre again in front of the best fans in the CIS,” Badgers women’s head coach Si Khounviseth said. “It’s a great opportunity for Brock and the community to come together to highlight what a great sports region Niagara is.”

The doubleheader will start with the Badgers women (7-4) taking on the Marauders (8-3) at 5:30 p.m. Brock had been ranked as high as sixth in the country earlier this year, but has now slipped from the Top 10. McMaster is ranked eighth.

The Badgers men (9-2) take on the Marauders (9-2) starting at 7:30 p.m. The two teams have been back and forth in the CIS rankings, with McMaster currently fourth and Brock fifth. It’s the second-to-last game of the regular season for both teams, so it could have serious playoff implications. 

“This will be the last home game of the season. It could decide the top spot in our conference and potentially a first-round bye in the playoffs,” said Badgers men’s coach Charles Kissi. “We had 2,800 fans for the first game (at the Meridian Centre) and I anticipate this one selling out.

“I think our fans will play a major role in being the sixth man for us. Mac is going to bring a big crowd, but we want to drown them out.” 

Tickets for the doubleheader are now available at ticketmaster.ca for $10 including all service fees. There are also $35 courtside seats available. Free tickets for all Brock students will be available closer to game day.

Fans filled the stands at Brock’s first games at the Meridian Centre in downtown St. Catharines. A second doubleheader is planned for Feb. 24.