The Story of Spokane Hoopfest
In the late 1980s, the concept of 3-on-3 basketball tournaments was virtually unheard of outside the Midwest. The Spokane Hoopfest Association emerged from the collaboration of two groups: one passionate about continuing the 3-on-3 basketball tradition and another dedicated to raising funds for Special Olympics. Co-founders Rick Betts and Jerry Schmidt led the charge to create an event that would transform downtown Spokane into a vibrant basketball hub.
With determination, they secured the necessary permits to shut down the streets for two full days of basketball. The inaugural tournament took place on June 30 and July 1, 1990, featuring 2,009 players across 512 teams. The overwhelming success of this first event laid the groundwork for what would become the largest 3-on-3 street basketball tournament in the world.
Over the years, Spokane Hoopfest has evolved into a family festival, offering activities for all ages, including youth and adult center courts, games, contests, and live music. Today, the event attracts over 6,000 teams and approximately 25,000 players from 42 states, utilizing 450 courts to accommodate 14,000 games. The economic impact on Spokane is significant, with Hoopfest contributing an estimated $39 million to the local economy each June.
Beyond the tournament, Spokane Hoopfest is committed to giving back to the community. Since its inception, the organization has donated over $1.6 million to local charities, including Special Olympics and youth sports programs. Additionally, Hoopfest has built or renovated more than 27 outdoor basketball courts, ensuring that local residents have access to year-round play.
Hoopfest is not just about basketball; it’s about fostering community spirit, inclusivity, and support for one another. The event has received accolades, including the 2003 Agora Award for Business Excellence, highlighting its role in uniting diverse cultures and ages for a common purpose.