To show appreciation for all their hard work and sacrifice during last week's major snowstorm in Buffalo, First Niagara Center, along with the athletic departments from Buffalo, Canisius, Niagara and St. Bonaventure are offering free tickets to all area first responders for the Big 4 Basketball Classic, presented by The Buffalo News, which will be held Saturday, Nov. 29, at First Niagara Center.

The first game of the day between Niagara and St. Bonaventure will tipoff at 2 p.m., followed by Canisius and Buffalo at 4:15 p.m.

First responders are invited to show their ID at the First Niagara Center box office to acquire two free tickets for Saturday's basketball doubleheader. Additional tickets can be purchased for $20. No refunds are available on previously purchased tickets.

"Western New York's first responders were incredibly helpful during the recent epic snowstorm," Niagara Director of Athletics Simon Gray said. "These dedicated professionals came to the aid of those that were affected. As this event brings together sports fans from the Big 4 community, this is an appropriate way to thank those that make this region safe and secure."

The Big 4 Basketball Classic, presented by The Buffalo News, will mark the first time all four Western New York Division I schools have played a true basketball doubleheader in First Niagara Center in nearly 16 years. This will be the fourth Big 4 basketball doubleheader in downtown Buffalo since the building opened in 1996.

Tickets for the Big 4 Basketball Classic start at $20 and one ticket is good for both games. Fans can purchase tickets through Tickets.com, at the First Niagara Center Box Office Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., and on game day or charge by phone at 1-888-223-6000.