Daily News

Registration Opens Dec. 2 for Hooplandia

WEST SPRINGFIELD — Registration for Hooplandia, the annual 3-on-3 basketball tourney and festival, opens on Dec. 2 at hooplandia.com. The event will take place June 20-22 at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Hooplandia will host levels for all ages and divisions, which means every kind of player is welcome.

As the premier 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the nine northeastern states, Hooplandia is still in its early years, but growing rapidly. In 2023 and 2024, the event was a resounding success.

Games will be played at the ESE complex, with special games held at the Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2024, 75 basketball courts allowed accommodation for more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. The expansive ESE grounds allow for growth as attendance numbers continue to climb each year.

ESE and the Hall of Fame agree that Hooplandia must be an all-inclusive environment for players of all ages and playing abilities. Diverse divisions include young girls and boys, women, men, high-school ages, college level, OGs, veterans, and more. Players in the Special Olympics and Unified division can look forward to free registration, and those in the Hoops & Heroes division, such as active and retired first responders and military personnel, have access to discounted registration.

Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name, design their uniforms, and register at hooplandia.com. Fees range according to age. Those that register before the end of the day on March 10 are treated to the 3 Point Perks package, which grants early teams access to limited-edition goodies. 3 Point Perks are not available after March 10, and registration prices increase after May 26 for late teams.

Since its first year, Hooplandia has partnered with Boys and Girls Clubs throughout Western Mass., with $10 from every paid team registration supporting the mission of Boys & Girls Clubs and their programming.

“Eastern States Exposition is a longtime supporter of Boys and Girls Clubs, and we are pleased to continue that support through this sports-based environment for youngsters,” ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy said. “We are committed to building Hooplandia into a cornerstone of the community.”

Hooplandia invites local businesses to explore sponsorship opportunities. Email [email protected] with inquiries.