A Summer Basketball Spectacle
The opening round of The Basketball Tournament will feature a marquee matchup as Boeheim’s Army squares off against Hall In, a contest that brings together former Syracuse stars and Seton Hall alumni in a battle for a $2 million prize.
Boeheim’s Army, coached by the legendary Jim Boeheim’s son, showcases Buddy Boeheim alongside Elijah Hughes, while also fielding veterans such as Shaun Belbey, Ryan Mulvaney and Ayton Branch. Their experience and chemistry make them a formidable presence on the court.
Opposing them, Hall In fields Seton Hall graduates Al‑Amir Dawes and Isaiah Whitehead, both of whom have carved out professional careers after college. Their skill sets complement a roster that aims to leverage the university’s rich basketball tradition.
Prize and the Elam Ending
The tournament’s winner‑take‑all format means the stakes are high, with a $2 million purse awaiting the champion. Adding to the excitement, the competition employs the Elam Ending, a rule that replaces the final minutes of play with a target score, ensuring that games conclude with a decisive shot rather than a timed finish.
Under the Elam Ending, the team that leads at the end of the fourth quarter sets a target by adding eight points to their total, after which play continues until a team reaches that mark. This system has been praised for producing clutch moments and extending the drama until the final basket.
Schedule and Venues
Game 1 is slated for Tuesday, July 21, at Walsh Gym in South Orange, New Jersey, the home court of Seton Hall University. The following Saturday, July 23, the series returns to Syracuse, New York, where Game 2 will be played, with a potential Game 3 to follow if needed.
The venues highlight the connection to their respective institutions: Walsh Gym is part of Seton Hall University, while the Syracuse stop will take place on the campus of Syracuse University, bringing the tournament’s energy back to the home of the Boeheim‑linked program.
Looking Ahead
Fans can expect a high‑octane contest that blends college‑era rivalries with professional ambition. As the teams prepare, the blend of experience, talent, and the unique tournament structure promises a memorable start to the summer basketball calendar.