Cage tourney for a cause returns

Last year, the Marianas March Against Cancer rallied the community upon the oval at Hopwood Junior High School for a 12-hour relay to pay tribute those who have either beaten or succumbed to cancer, and to express the hope of a future free from the pain and loss associated with the deadly affliction.

In an effort to continue the fundraising efforts, the Pacific Islands Club is joining with Gatorade, the Hyatt Regency Saipan, Hard Rock Café, and Joeten Enterprises to sponsor the 2nd Annual Hoops for Life 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament.

Tip-off for the island-wide event is Saturday, April 30, and continues through Sunday, May 1.

“There is such a passion for basketball on this island that we thought a tournament would be the ideal opportunity for a lot of fun and fundraising” said tournament coordinator JoJo Cramer.

Last year’s tournament raised almost $700, and according to Cramer, the hope is to more than double that this year to $1,500.

“I think everyone has been touched by cancer in some way, and those experiences are what really motivate people to contribute to the cause in one way or another. By hosting a sporting event, we feel it is the perfect way to celebrate life and also contribute towards others’ well being in some small way.”

The 3-on-3 action will take place upon the courts in San Antonio, with the confines of Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium opening its doors to serve as a haven for less-than-ideal weather, as well as to handle any overflow of games.

To register for the hoop-athon, simply pick up an entry form at the PIC at either the Front Desk or Information Counter. The cost to lace up the kicks and show off the skills is $50 per team before April 22, and $60 per team there after.

Teams must have a minimum of four players on their roster, and are limited to a maximum of five.

There will be both a men’s and women’s divisions, and winners stand to take home a portion of the wide variety cash and prizes awarded to the top teams in each division. Hoopsters will also receive a T-shirt, drinks, and waterpark passes (for the days of the tournament only) with their entry fees.

Food and drinks available for sale throughout the tournament as well as originally designed Hoops for Life T-shirts, and all proceeds will be donated to the Marianas March Against Cancer event.