Some familiar faces will help welcome a host of new ones in the University of Hawaii’s revamped version of basketball Twilight Ohana on Oct. 15, dubbed "UH Ohana Hoopfest."

Two celebrity games — one for Gib Arnold’s men’s team and another for Dana Takahara-Dias’ women’s team — will highlight the festivities at the Stan Sheriff Center slated immediately after the conclusion of the Rainbow Wahine volleyball match against San Jose State that begins at 7 p.m.

The UH players, among them 10 newcomers for the men and four for the women, will play either with or against the celebrities. Other activities include a halfcourt shot contest for fans, skits by the players and an autograph session.

Things are tentatively set for a 9:15 p.m. start, depending on when the volleyball match finishes and how fast the court can be changed. Fans can stay after volleyball or get in for free after.

"It’s gonna be a good time," said Arnold, preparing for his first season as a Division I head coach.

UH was trying to work out a "Hawaii Five-0" theme with stars of the show in the celebrity games, but that arrangement is up in the air.

According to Takahara-Dias, confirmed participants are UH Manoa chancellor Virginia Hinshaw, entertainer Carol Kai, comedian Steve Naeole and radio personalities Billy V and Sweetie Pacarro.

"It’s going to be fun, an evening where you can meet everyone on our roster," Takahara-Dias said. "More importantly, you’re going to see the players’ personalities show (with the skits)."

The event coincides with the official national start of men’s basketball practices for the 2010-11 season. Both UH teams open their season against Chaminade at the Sheriff Center, with the women Nov. 4 and men Nov. 6.

Season tickets on sale

Season tickets for both the UH men’s and women’s teams go on sale tomorrow at the Stan Sheriff Center box office, online at www.hawaiiathletics.com, or by phone at 944-2697.

A Rainbow Warriors lower-level package is $370 to $390, including the premium seating contribution. The upper-level package is $200 for adults, $175 for senior citizens (65 and older) and $89 for students in grade school through high school. Wahine general admission package is $60, $50 and $25 for those age groups, respectively.