PLYMOUTH squad 7 Hills took down the annual Bridport 3x3 basketball tournament at Beaminster Community Sports Hall.
With over 150 players competing over the two-day event coming from all over the country, it was destined to be an amazing weekend of top-quality basketball.
Thirty elite men’s teams battled it out on the first day with lots of high flying action and sharp shooting, all looking to secure their places in the final 12 and continue on the second day.
As the knockout stages progressed it came down to London-based Argyle Kings against 7 Hills in the final showdown where 7 Hills were just too hot to handle, getting their name engraved on the annual trophy for the first time in the last six events.
This year, 3x3 basketball featured at the Olympics for the first time.
READ MORE: Dorset's Hannah Mills creates Olympic history
Bridport’s 3x3 has become one of the best outdoor 3x3 tournaments in the country and this year proved why as professional players were lining up to be involved.
Pro baller Will Neighbour from Plymouth Raiders won the MVP award. He said: “The Bridport 3x3 tournament was a great weekend. Not only was there a good level of competitive basketball being played it had a really fun social side to it. All in all a very well organised event that was a lot of fun.”
On top of the elite men’s category there was also a special opportunity for junior players to get involved in a skills clinic with Great Britain 3x3 and England Commonwealth player Orlan Jackman.
Thirty future young ballers came together for the experience, never given in West Dorset before, and learnt some valuable points on how to become a better player and what it takes to play as a professional athlete.
With all the juniors hyped up ready to play they were split into eight teams for a mini tournament of their own with eventual winners of the junior tournament going to Weymouth Warriors. A key member of the winning team, Cameron Singh from Weymouth, also took home the Junior MVP award.
Event organiser and Bridport Evolution basketball club owner Craig Sorrell said: “Our tournament has grown dramatically over the last six years and I’m so proud to be able to give youngsters the opportunity to meet and learn from the professionals and also create an event that attracts players to come to the South coast for basketball.
“With the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham next year introducing 3x3 basketball for the first time and the Olympics introducing the sport this year, I feel now is the best time to promote and grow the sport for our country.
“To do that in our home town is an amazing feeling I will always honour.”
Organisers wish to thank Bridport 3x3 main sponsors Shield Sights, FASTyres, Gavin Dixon Financial Solutions and Amsafe Bridport for their continued support in creating the event.
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