FIBA 3x3 Challenger event proves that Alberta is hungry for elite basketball

It was a basketball fan’s dream last weekend at West Edmonton Mall’s Ice Palace and the Stingers executive team made sure that they were a part of it as well. 16 teams representing various countries from around the globe, including Japan, Puerto Rico, Canada, the United States, Serbia, and more journeyed to the tourist hotspot to battle for $20,000 USD in prize money.

As part of the Stingers’ ongoing commitment to supporting the growth of basketball in Edmonton and Canada, Stingers director of business operations Kail Schofield saw the event as a crucial opportunity to support Alberta Basketball, who hosted the event and also act as the province’s governing body for the sport.

“I think it’s important that if the sport is going to grow on all levels, the Stingers must work with all partners in the community,” Schofield said.

“Alberta Basketball has done such a great job of promoting the sport as is, and we’re hoping the Stingers can elevate their precedent with a professional presence in Edmonton.”

The event provided a unique atmosphere as onlookers lined the balcony that overhung the court, while fans on the ground floor were treated to an up close and courtside view of the action.

Serving as North America’s first International Basketball Federation (FIBA) 3x3 Challenger event, the tournament attracted a big crowd.

It’s no secret that Edmonton is a basketball hotbed. More and more local athletes are reaching U Sports and professional ranks every year. Last weekend served as a perfect indication of basketball’s growing popularity in Alberta’s capital and why now is the perfect time for professional basketball to return in the form of the Stingers.

The Stingers have been active in recent months in establishing ties with community partners and fostering relationships with local organizations. With the team’s front office growing, Schofield believes that events like the Edmonton Challenger are great opportunities to engage with the public.

Throughout the weekend Schofield was thrilled to answer questions from fans who had plenty of questions about the genesis of the team, as well as Schofield’s goals for the organization. Not surprisingly, many fans also had questions about how they can support the team and where they can purchase merchandise to help represent the Stingers.

A few select fans at the event were the beneficiaries of free Stingers merchandise that Schofield had brought along; however, with the Stingers’ season ticket presale still going in full force, he reiterated the importance of keeping an eye on the team’s social feeds and said that big announcements will be made throughout the fall months.

“People really took a liking to the name of the team and they really feel that it is a strong logo with a fitting colour scheme,” Schofield said.

“In the meantime, stay tuned as a lot of exciting announcements are coming down the pipeline in the next few weeks that will be of incredible interest to those who love basketball and sports in general.”