Basketball tournaments are all about competitive spirit and community involvement. This year, a new competition is dribbling onto the campus of the Washington State Capitol: Capital City 3on3. Players of all ages and skill sets will guard, pass, and shoot their way to victory during Lakefair weekend.
“We want the community to come together,” says owner of 90TEN Training Academy, Robin Johson. “3on3 basketball is really for all ages and skill levels.” To make sure that anyone interested can get involved, teams are split into different divisions. Within the categories of Elite and Standard, they are further divided by age, height, and level of experience to create the most equal matches possible.
Photo credit: 90Ten Training Academy
Even in its first year, the Capital City 3on3 is planning for a big turnout. “We are expecting to draw thousands of attendees,” explains Johnson. “This is our first year so we are hoping the whole community will join in on the fun. Our basketball courts will be set up on the grounds of the Capitol Campus. To be right in the heart of that campus with Lakefair in the background really makes this a unique site.”
While the 3 on 3 games are the main event, there is plenty more for hoop enthusiasts to check out individually. First, for the cost of $5, players can show off their dunking skills on a standard height basketball hoop. Also, there will be a 3-point contest. Anyone from any age or skill level can compete in these competitions for a coveted prize.
Want to learn some new skills? Organizers have that covered, too! Students can sign up for a clinic by renowned basketball coach, Jimmy Anderson. Learn to play like the pros from this head coach of legends. His clinic starts at 12:00 p.m. Sunday on the Elite court for the first 20 kids to sign up. Sign-ups will be held Friday at registration and Saturday at the event booth. Cost is just $5 a student.
Photo credit: 90Ten Training Academy
The most of the action will take place on the courts but there is even more to do from the sidelines. Many local organizations will have booths set up to explore. Inspire Physical Therapy will be on-site for first aid. There will be vendors selling espresso, headbands, massage therapy, and food concessions. The Army Reserve will have a free obstacle course for community members to duck, dive, and jump through.
Basketball is the main attraction of this event but the focused outcome is for unity among our community. “Starting as young as third grade and reaching all the way through retirement, there will be a division represented for competition,” explains Johnson. “We want it to be an all-ages community event with the purpose of bringing us together.”
Photo credit: 90Ten Training Academy
Registration for teams can be completed on the 90TEN Training Academy website. This event is also looking for volunteers to help run the competition. If you are interested, go to the Capital City website’s volunteer page for more info and to sign up for a shift.
