The best basketball weekend on Earth
By Christian Weaner
Spokane's streets are set to throb with the rhythmic bounce of basketballs and the roar of enthusiastic crowds as Hoopfest, the world's largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament, returns for its annual spectacle.
As anticipation mounts for another thrilling year, here is what Hoopfest 2024 has in store for participants and spectators alike.
New Thrills and Competitions
One of the exciting additions this year is the introduction of the bump (knockout) competition, offering games for all ages.
Riley Stockton, Hoopfest's executive director, believes this addition will be a hit. "I think bump in basketball translates better than even the games do,” Riley states. “Everyone knows bump, and everyone can play it, so that should be a fun activity."
Adding to the excitement, the Festival of Hoops raffle will provide basketball enthusiasts with unique experiences, including coveted tickets to a major Gonzaga basketball game. Hoopfest organizers are also working on securing appearances by a few celebrities, enhancing the festival atmosphere and adding to the overall excitement.
Hoopfest Highlights
An event not to be missed is the MultiCare Slam Dunk Competition. "One of the best events we do is the MultiCare Slam Dunk Competition." Riley acknowledges his bias, but he argued that the Hoopfest dunk contest is even better than the annual NBA dunk competition. “We have some really highflyers that come from around the Northwest,” Riley adds. “And they put on a show the last couple of years that rivaled any dunk contest I’ve ever seen.”
Tips for First-Time Attendees
Riley recommends that first-time Hoopfest fans explore games from different age groups and competition levels to fully experience the diverse range of talent and excitement the tournament offers.
Hoopfest's Impact on Spokane
Beyond the basketball, Hoopfest is a celebration of community spirit, bringing out the best in Spokane's residents. "Hoopfest brings out the best in the people of Spokane," Riley describes. "We have tried to do Hoopfest in other cities ... but you can't meet the magic of Spokane."
With fans, players and volunteers coming together, Hoopfest has become a cherished tradition in the city.
Stockton’s Hoopfest Legacy
For Riley Stockton, Hoopfest is more than just a basketball tournament — it's a family tradition and a lifelong passion. Growing up in Spokane, Riley was immersed in a basketball-rich environment, with his uncle, the legendary John Stockton, leaving an indelible mark on the local basketball scene. Riley's roots in Hoopfest run deep, having played in the tournament since kindergarten, often alongside his brothers and cousins, creating lasting memories on the streets of Spokane.
"It is a privilege and an honor," Riley says of his role as executive director, which he has held for three years now. "There were so many good memories that came from this organization when I was young and growing up, so to be in charge of that and being the one to hopefully provide those good memories and those good times for other Spokane families and out-of-town families is a privilege and an honor."
Despite his busy schedule overseeing the event, Riley's love for Hoopfest remains unwavering.
"The two best weekends of the year have always been Hoopfest and Christmas," he remarks.
Get Ready for Hoopfest 2024
As the countdown to Hoopfest 2024 begins, excitement is palpable for what promises to be another unforgettable weekend of basketball again this year. Whether you're a seasoned player, an avid fan or a first-time attendee, Hoopfest 2024 guarantees an experience like no other. For more information or to register for Hoopfest 2024, visit SpokaneHoopfest.net.
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