An idea hatched to celebrate the 100th year of the Taylor Daily Press will reach its 13th year in July. The annual Taylor Press 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament will be held July 11-12 at Taylor High School.
“I love the fact that people look forward to the tournament year in and year out,” said Jason Hennington, tournament director. “Support for the event seems to grow every year.”
The inaugural tournament had 20 teams and has continued to improve every year. In 2018, the tournament hit its peak at 38 teams across four divisions. On average, the twoday event has 30 to 35 teams each year.
Age divisions for men and women are 11-14, 15-17 and 18 and older. Anyone who has played varsity basketball will play in the 18 and older division.
“We’ve gotten more women’s teams, and our youth divisions are also getting bigger. Both divisions are very competitive,” Hennington said.
The tournament is used to raise money for scholarships for a senior from each of the Taylor High School basketball teams. The Shining Stars, a local nonprofit that focuses on adults with special needs, operate the concession stand and keep all of the proceeds.
The entry fee is $50 a team with up to four players per team, which Hennington said is unheard of in most places.
“Anyone who has played in tournaments or summer basketball know the cost can range from $75 to $150 per player,” he said. “We keep it affordable and offer great prizes thanks to our sponsors.”
Winners receive championship rings among other prizes. In addition to prizes for the winners, there is a raffle, three-point and free throw contests.
Last year, Hennington implemented new traditions to the event.
“We will present the students with their scholarships at the tournament, and livestream it so the community can congratulate and celebrate with them,” he said.
Along with running the concession stand, the Shining Stars also play in the tournament. On Saturday, they have a game against players from different teams competing in the tournament as a warmup for Sunday. This year, the Shining Stars will once again face the Taylor High School 1995 district championship team.
“We changed the format last year, and everyone loved it,” Hennington said. 'After the tournament last year, more players from the 95 team contacted us saying they wanted to play this year.”
The director has a connection to both sides of the game with his sister on the Shining Stars and his brother on the 95 team.
“It’s great watching them compete against each other. Heather doesn’t want to lose, and Kevin isn’t going to let her embarrass him,” Hennington laughed. “Both teams have been talking noise, so I expect this game to be intense.”
While the goal is to raise money for scholarships, Hennington said there is a bigger picture with the tournament.
“We provide a safe, fun and competitive environment. If this tournament can keep kids or adults off the streets and out of trouble, even for two days, it’s worth it,” he said. “Basketball is the avenue to reach all of the goals, but it is so much bigger than hooping.”
For anyone interested in signing up, registering, donating or volunteering can contact Hennington at 512-269-9735 or email [email protected].
Jacob Birnbaum (back) goes up for a rebound against Jon Gosnell in the championship game.
