Hoops In The Sun: The Ultimate Summer Basketball Tournament in the Bronx, NY.
Summer in New York is a time of hot weather, outdoor activities, and the much-awaited annual basketball tournament, Hoops In The Sun in the Bronx. The tournament has been a staple for thousands of basketball fans in the city and beyond, since its inception in 2000. Not only has it attracted some of the biggest names in basketball, but it has also become a community-driven event that brings people together from all walks of life.
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Hoops In The Sun is an outdoor, pro am type of tournament that takes place on weekends from June to August, at the Orchard Beach basketball courts in the Bronx. The tournament is open to players of all skill levels, with a variety of different divisions for different age groups and experience levels. They also showcase girls and women’s basketball which has been absent at many of the leagues around the city. The games are fast-paced, high-energy, and played under the scorching sun, which adds to the intense atmosphere of the tournament.
The tournament has such a rich history and has not only gained support from basketball enthusiasts but has also drawn in big names in the NBA. NYC Basketball royalty such as Kemba Walker, Meta World Peace, Lance Stevenson, Corey “Homicide” Williams, Rafer Alston, and Smush Parker (The List goes on and on) have all participated in the tournament, adding to the excitement and hype around it.
Randy (Left) and Joe Cruz Jr. (Right) the Co-Commissioners of Hoops in the Sun.
Aside from basketball, the tournament offers more than just games. Fans can enjoy the atmosphere that only can be found at Orchard Beach in the BX. Fans also enjoy music, food trucks, and local vendors selling a variety of basketball-themed merchandise. There are also Hoops In the Sun Merch for sale, giving fans a chance to rock the Hoops In The Sun brand.
More than just a basketball tournament, Hoops In The Sun has become an integral part of the Bronx community, providing a positive outlet for the youth of the neighborhood to come together and showcase their skills. The tournament has also been successful in promoting safe and healthy living practices and driving crime rates down in the surrounding neighborhoods. The tournament continues to draw people from cities throughout the United States and has become an iconic summer event in New York. Fulfilling the vision that Joe “Pops” Cruz Sr. had for the East Coast version of Venice Beach Basketball.
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If you’re a basketball fan visiting New York City, a trip to Hoops In The Sun is a must. Whether you’re a spectator or a participant, the tournament is a great opportunity to watch some great basketball, explore the culture of New York and soak up the summer vibes. Hoops In The Sun is more than just a tournament; it’s a community where basketball lovers come together to celebrate the sport and each other.
Salute to Joe and Randy Cruz, the Commissioners at HITS. I’m proud of calling these guys and the entire HITS staff family. See y’all soon!