For the Reporter

The Jim Marsh Classic, one of Western Washington’s largest outdoor 3-on-3-basketball tournaments, returns Saturday and Sunday to Emerald Downs.

The tournament features more than 20 classifications of ages and abilities and benefits three major organizations – Mentoring Works Washington, the Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation, and Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

Action tips off on 31 courts in the north parking lot of the track, 2300 Ron Crockett Drive. This year’s event merges two events – The Jim Marsh Classic and EmD3-On-3 – into a giant outdoor 3-on-3-hoops showdown.

“We’re proud to partner with Emerald Downs, Mentoring Works Washington and the Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation,” Marsh said. “Having been a part of the basketball community in the Northwest, I am excited for the opportunity of putting together an event of this magnitude.”

Last year’s event at Emerald Downs attracted more than 1,000 players on 223 teams and drew more than 3,000 spectators.

“Basketball in this region has exploded these past couple of decades, and this tournament is a great place for future stars to show their talents and compete against each other at a high level,” Marsh added.

The classic is open to all players of all ages and abilities. Each team is guaranteed at least three games.

Bob Fraser, the EmD3-On-3 event coordinator since 2013, said other activities include:

• 3-point shootout open to all players.

• Autograph booth featuring local basketball celebrities.

• Free testing by Basketball Combine allowing players and fans to compare abilities with their favorite NBA stars.

• Food Trucks and free doughnuts courtesy of Top Pot Doughnuts.

More information is available at JimMarshClassic.org. Signups closed July 31.