The Memorial Gymnasium Pepsi Arena at Quincy University celebrated its 75th anniversary on Saturday, Feb. 22, during the women’s and men’s basketball games.

The day brought many activities such as free drinks from Pepsi and the possibility to win cash prizes. A particular event that was going on during the celebrations was a half-time show where participants could win $5,000.

The first half-time contest during the women’s basketball game was to complete a 3-shot challenge in order to win merchandise. The four participants who participated had to make a lay up, paint point basket and a 3-point basket to be able to compete for the money.

In order to particpate it was neccesary to buy a blue ticket for $1 each in order to be a part of the raffle to compete for the merchandise and $5,000.

Many fans showed up to watch the event play off and see if there was a lucky participant that day. Only one lucky guy could make it out of the four participants.

Zack Aschemann who used to be a tight-end coach for QU’s football team sank the impossible half-court shot in the halftime of the men’s basketball game. Aschemann secured the $5,000 prize to the roar of the crowd.

The first thing Aschemann will do is put the money into a savings account. Aschemann said that family and hope made it possible for him to make the shot.

“I just closed my eyes and threw the ball up and the next thing you know $5,000 me and Avary are holding it and we are going to rock the house with it,” Aschemann said.

Morgan Schrock stayed to witness if anyone was lucky enough to receive the $5,000 grand. She could not believe her eyes when Aschemann made the shot.

“I was in complete shock when he made that half-court shot. The whole arena just went crazy, it was unbelievable to witness,” Schrock said.

The event not only celebrated the arena’s 75-year legacy but also created unforgettable memories for fans and participants alike.

Another spectator who could not believe her eyes was Marina Oberschmid who showed up to watch the halftime show but not with the idea of anyone being lucky enough.

“I really didn’t think anyone would make that shot, it seemed nearly impossible, but when he sank it, the whole crowd went wild and he proved me wrong,” Oberschmid said.

As the celebrations came to a close, the excitement of the night was in the air. Fans left the arena buzzing about Aschemann’s incredible shot and the unforgettable energy that filled the gym.

The 75th anniversary of the Memorial Gymnasium Pepsi Arena was not just a tribute to its rich history but also a reminder of the moments that make sports so thrilling.

With memories made and cheers still echoing, Quincy University’s community will surely be talking about this event for years to come.