HUNTINGDON, PA- This coming Saturday January 31, the Juniata men's basketball team will host a "Shaq the House" to benefit team member Shaquill Smith and his family.  The men and women entertain Landmark rival Drew University in a doubleheader with a 2pm tip-off for the women and a 4 p.m. start for the men.

On October 23rd, Shaquill became critically ill.  After being rushed to the Altoona Regional hospital, he was life-flighted to UPMC Presbyterian where he spent several weeks in their Intensive Care Unit. Now home, Shaquill continues to require almost daily therapy and medical treatment.  Shaquill continues to make steady progress toward recovery but the road is long and his challenges many. In an effort to recognize and support Shaquill and his family, the Juniata Men' Basketball team plans to welcome Shaq back to campus for the first time since the onset of his illness. All proceeds from the game will go to help Shaquill and his family and Shaquill will be recognized before the start of the men's game.

"We are all very excited to have Shaq back on campus, in the locker room, and with his teammates," said head men's basketball coach Greg Curley. "He is an inspiration to all of us and a reminder of how precious every day, every practice, every game, every opportunity is for all of us. Despite everything he has faced, he remains positive, upbeat, and determined to get back to Juniata and back to the game he loves. He is a special person with a special spirit, and a true inspiration to all of us."

In an effort to help Shaq and his family, all proceeds from Saturday's games will be donated to the family to help with their mounting medical expenses. No passes will be honored and students, faculty, and staff will be asked to either purchase a ticket or a t-shirt for admission to the game. T-shirts will be on sale Wednesday through Friday in the Post Office or the Athletic Office.   

Please join us in support of Shaquill and his family and help Juniata Basketball "Shaq the House."  For more information or to purchase t-shirts or make a donation please contact the men's basketball office at 814-641-3523 or hagern@juniata.edu.

A Go Fund Me site has been set up to support Shaquill and his family. Click on http://www.gofundme.com/kwlq58 to donate.