The sun shone over Tenino on Sunday, July 26, as the Capital City 3‑on‑3 Basketball Tournament kicked off, drawing a crowd of families and friends eager to watch the city’s emerging talent.
High school seniors and college underclassmen took to the outdoor courts, each hoping to catch the eye of scouts and teammates alike. Among them were Paige Arko of River Ridge, Ryder Stephens from North Thurston, and Cayden Rowswell of Olympia, who each displayed flashes of brilliance.
The competition was fierce, with teams battling back and forth in a format that emphasized speed and teamwork. The girls’ high school division saw the squad 90TEN claim the championship, a victory anchored by standout performances from Stella Herington of Olympia and Arko herself.
Coaches and assistants also got in the action, including Hunter Sipe, an assistant with Saint Martin’s men’s basketball program, and RJ Hominda, head coach of the Yelm boys team, who showed that experience can still shine on the court.
Local alumni added depth to the field, from Joe Crumley, a Black Hills graduate, to Trevontay Smith and Damian Aalona, both Yelm products, who contributed key plays throughout the day.
The event underscored the growing basketball culture in the region, offering a platform for athletes from Tumwater, Rainier, Toledo and beyond to showcase their skills in front of peers and community members.
Community Spirit on Full Display
Beyond the hardwood, the tournament served as a gathering point for the Tenino community, where local businesses set up booths and families cheered on the next generation of players. The atmosphere reflected a shared pride in homegrown talent and the promise of future successes.