TAYLOR – What began after former sports reporter David Thompson and then-news reporter Jason Hennington played a few games on empty outside courts, the annual Taylor Press 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament will hit a milestone this year.
“I think the initial hope was that the tournament would grow into what it is now, but I’d be lying if I thought we’d be celebrating its 10th year,” Thompson said.
The tournament started in 2013 as a part of the Taylor Press centennial celebration. The event caught the attention of athletes in the area, and grew year after year.
“I love seeing how far we have come over the years,” Hennington, area editor and tournament director said. “Not just the competition, but what the tournament represents and how much people enjoy it.”
This year, WNBA franchise the Dallas Wings has agreed to donate to the tournament.
“That is a huge contribution from a well-known organization,” Hennington said. “It’s exciting to know for the first time we have a WNBA team supporting us. It’s great.”
The annual event is a fundraiser for two scholarships that go to graduating Taylor High School athletes in the class of 2024. A donation is also made to a local nonprofit.“This tournament is not all about basketball. That’s just the avenue,” Hennington said. “The tournament is about the community, giving back and bringing people together. That has always been the purpose.”
This year, the Shining Stars, a local nonprofit for adults with special needs, will return to operate the concession stand, as well as take to the court once more for a championship series of games.
Participating age groups are 11-14, 15-17 and 18 and older. There are divisions for both men and women.
Anyone who has played varsity-level basketball will play in the 18-and-older division.
Winners receive championship rings in addition to other prizes.
There also will be a 3-point contest, freethrow contest, a game of knockout and a raffle.
“The level of competition is high and there are so many opportunities to leave with a prize,” Hennington said. “Even if you don’t play, just come watch and you’ll have a great time.”
Registration forms are available at the Taylor Press, 211 W. Third St., and the Taylor Press 3-on-3 Facebook page.
Hennington is looking for donations and volunteers to help with the tournament.
For more, call Hennington at 512352-8535 or 512-2699735, or email [email protected] or taylorpress3on3@ gmail. com.
