The Area IV Special Olympics basketball meet will take place Friday, Feb. 12, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Turner Center.

Supporters and volunteers are invited to the event that is being sponsored by Mississippi Special Olympics and the University of Mississippi Department of Health, Exercise Science and Recreation Management.

Between 150 and 200 athletes from Lafayette, Calhoun, Grenada, Panola, Tallahatchie and Yalobusha counties are expected to participate in the event.

Athletes can compete in three different games: 3-on-3, full court, and skill shots.

“The best part of the event is seeing the athletes’ smiles and happiness when competing and receiving their ribbons,” said Michael A Dupper, assistant professor of health, exercise science and recreation management. “That’s in addition to the volunteers’ selfless volunteerism and joy of being a pivotal part of the games.”

The event is free to attend.

Anyone who would like to volunteer can contact Zachary Antonelli at zantonel@go.olemiss.edu by Wednesday, Feb. 10.