SPRINGFIELD – To honor the return of longtime radio broadcaster Art Hains to the air this season, Missouri State University will be hosting an Art Hains Day celebration around the men’s basketball game at Great Southern Bank Arena on Saturday, Dec. 9.
Game time is 6:00 p.m. against Sam Houston State.
Hains, first began calling MSU’s action in 1977 and is in his second stint and 43rd season overall as the Voice of the Bears. He called Bears games from 1977 to 1981 and later returned to the mic in Springfield in 1985. He has announced nearly 3,000 Missouri State athletic events during his tenure.
Since Sept. 17, 2022, Hains has been battling a life-threatening illness that began with a West Nile Virus diagnosis which has caused paralysis, respiratory challenges and at times long odds for survival. He has defied those odds and challenges and returned as the pregame and postgame host for the Kansas City Chiefs Radio Network in August before announcing four home football broadcasts for the Bears this fall. His commitment to return to home basketball broadcast duties for the basketball Bears this season is certainly cause for celebration.
“We invite fans, alumni, students and the city of Springfield as a whole to join us on this special day to recognize Art,” said Missouri State Director of Athletics Kyle Moats. “Art is an institutional treasure, and we’re honored and blessed to have him back courtside for Bears basketball games. We’re looking forward to recognizing his amazing progress with a fitting tribute.”
Ticket Specials
Tickets for the Art Hains Day game are available now, starting at just $5 for adults. All children 12 and under receive free admission for the game.
For tickets, please visit MissouriStateBears.com or stop by the box office at Great Southern Bank Arena, (417) 836-7678, during regular box office hours.
Special Presentations
In addition to a video tribute, the halftime recognition for Art will include a special Art Hains Day presentation from Springfield Mayor Ken McClure as well as a unique honor from Missouri Valley Conference Commissioner Jeff Jackson.
Jackson will present Hains with the John Sanders Spirit of The Valley Award, which annually honors a student-athlete, coach or university administrator who exemplifies a passion for the conference, a strong work ethic and a sense of humor. The award was named in honor of the late MVC assistant commissioner for operations, with previous Missouri State honorees Bill Rowe (2006) and Dr. Mary Jo Wynn (2010) sharing that unique distinction.
A special commemorative gate giveaway will also be presented to the first 2,000 fans in attendance at the game.
A Message from The Voice
The Art Hains Day halftime recognition will conclude with a message from Hains himself. His first public opportunity at a Bears sporting event to thank BearNation for its unwavering support for him and his family during the tribulations of the past year will conclude a memorable event fans will not want to miss.
