Circleville, OH – Downtown Circleville was abuzz with excitement on Saturday, July 20th, 2024, as the 4th Annual Uptown Classic 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament took center stage under sunny skies on the Streets of Court street. The event, which drew 55 teams of 4 players each, proved to be a thrilling showdown for basketball enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.
From amateurs to elites, the Uptown Classic welcomed participants spanning various divisions tailored to different age groups and abilities. The competition included categories starting from 10-year-olds all the way up to the challenging Nineteen and Up Baller Division, showcasing the versatility and inclusivity of the tournament. Teams were reported to have come from outside of Circleville with a semi-pro team from Lancaster and some from Columbus.
Accompanying the basketball action was the Sidewalk Sale-a-Bration event, which encouraged downtown visitors to explore local shops and businesses from July 18th to July 20th. Volunteers from Logan Elm and Circleville, along with support from the Ohio Christian University volleyball team, played pivotal roles in setting up the event. The local fire department even pitched in by setting up hoops for the tournament.
The success of the Uptown Classic 3 on 3 Tournament was bolstered by generous sponsors whose contributions helped enhance the event and support community initiatives. Among the sponsors were Ohio Health, Coughlin, Eagles 685, The Savings Bank, and several others who stepped up to ensure a memorable experience for participants and spectators alike.
“This tournament not only brings together basketball enthusiasts but also supports our local community,” said a spokesperson from Uptown, highlighting the event’s broader impact. Funds raised from the tournament, which amounted to approximately $25,000, will be reinvested into local events and initiatives aimed at beautifying the area and fostering community spirit.”
Jeff Rawlins, President of Uptown Circleville, expressed his enthusiasm following the success of the fourth annual three-on-three basketball tournament, highlighting the strong community support and turnout.
“We’ve had an incredible turnout for our fourth annual three-on-three basketball tournament, thanks to the dedication of our volunteers and the generous support from local business owners and the entire community,” Rawlins remarked. “The event has not been without its challenges, but I’m immensely proud of how Circleville has come together.”
Rawlins emphasized the tournament’s role in drawing hundreds of people downtown who might not typically visit. “Today was a big win for everybody,” he said. “We’re excited to bring more people to downtown Circleville, providing a reason for residents and visitors alike to experience what our city has to offer.”
“Our mission is clear: to revitalize uptown Circleville, which in turn revitalizes our entire city,” Rawlins explained. “We aim to create opportunities and attractions that draw people to Circleville, even those who may not typically explore beyond their immediate surroundings.”
Highlighting the diversity of events planned throughout the year, Rawlins stressed the importance of providing varied reasons for people to visit downtown Circleville. “This tournament attracts families and a specific crowd, and we have other events lined up that cater to different interests,” he shared. “By collaborating with events city-wide, like this, we hope to further enhance our community’s vibrancy.”
“In the end, it’s about responding to what our residents want,” Rawlins concluded. “We want to build and sustain reasons for everyone to enjoy and engage with downtown Circleville.”
Throughout the day, DJ Czar kept the energy high with music while food trucks catered to hungry participants and visitors. The tournament, entirely run by volunteers, culminated in medal ceremonies honoring the champions and providing well-deserved bragging rights to the winning teams.
A poignant moment during the tournament was the victory of father-son teams from Mid State Storm. Brandon Jennings not only won his game in the Nineteen and Over division but also rushed to witness his son Cooper Jennings and his team clinch victory in the 10-year-olds category, showcasing the tournament’s ability to create memorable family moments.
The Uptown Classic 3 on 3 Tournament continues to grow in popularity, drawing participants from across the state and region. As a cornerstone of summer entertainment in Circleville, it celebrates sportsmanship, community engagement, and the thrill of competitive basketball in a vibrant downtown setting.
Uptown a non-profit reports that with the monies earned by the fundraiser, they will work on future projects that include the beautification of a recent alley that was closed that will be used as foot traffic in downtown Circleville along with activity planned for the Christmas season.
