A vibrant basketball celebration is set to light up the Houston sports scene this October, as Academy Sports + Outdoors joins forces with Nike and its Jordan Brand to stage the H‑Town Classic 3v3 tournament. The two‑day showdown will bring together junior high and high school teams from across the region for a series of competitive brackets.
Where the action will take place
The tournament will be held at Academy’s Katy, Texas store located at 23155 Katy Freeway, running from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on both October 17 and October 18. The venue, part of Academy’s expansive network of over 300 stores in 21 states, will be transformed into a bustling court for the event.
Youth divisions and competition
Organizers have structured the competition into separate junior high and high school brackets for boys and girls, creating a full slate of 3‑on‑3 matchups. Teams from throughout the Houston metropolitan area will converge to test their skills on the hardwood, with the schedule designed to maximize playing time and spectator engagement.
Supporting Houston’s youth
All proceeds from ticket sales and related fundraising will be donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston, an organization that provides after‑school programs and mentorship to thousands of local youngsters. In addition, Academy, Nike and Jordan Brand will cover the entry fees for two teams representing the clubs, ensuring that financial barriers do not limit participation.
A voice from the leadership
Steve Lawrence, chief executive of Academy Sports + Outdoors, highlighted the tournament’s significance, noting that Houston’s rich basketball heritage makes it the ideal backdrop for a community‑focused event. ‘This tournament captures the spirit of Houston basketball while giving back to the neighborhoods that inspire us,’ Lawrence said in a statement.
Beyond the court
The partnership underscores a broader commitment among corporate sponsors to invest in youth sports and community development. By leveraging the reach of Academy’s retail presence and the marketing power of Nike’s Jordan Brand, the H‑Town Classic aims to set a precedent for future grassroots basketball initiatives across the United States.
A legacy of community
With a footprint that spans more than three hundred stores, Academy Sports + Outdoors has long positioned itself as a hub for local athletes and families. The H‑Town Classic extends that role, turning a single retail location into a focal point for charitable giving and youth empowerment.
As the city prepares for the October weekend, excitement builds among players, coaches and families eager to showcase talent on the court while supporting a cause that resonates throughout Houston. The H‑Town Classic promises not only high‑energy basketball but also a tangible demonstration of how sport can drive social impact.