Emerald Downs introduces EmD 3-On-3 this summer, a two-day hoops extravaganza on 30 courts in the north parking lot.

The inaugural EmD3-On-3 is Saturday, Aug. 10 and Sunday, Aug. 11 – the week before the Longacres Mile – and is expected to attract players throughout Washington and possibly beyond.

The event is modeled after the successful Hoopfest in Spokane, which began with 2,000 players in 1990 and has grown to one of that city’s biggest events with nearly 28,000 players and 3,000 volunteers in 2012.

“The Puget Sound region is one of the nation’s biggest hotbeds for basketball, with tremendous interest and participation in youth, high school and collegiate programs,” said Emerald Downs President Ron Crockett.

“A 3-on-3 tournament is a natural, and we have a great venue that is centrally located for easy access.”

To be held on 30 side-by-side half-courts in the parking lot north of the grandstand, EmD3-On-3 is open to teams and players of all ages and abilities. Cost per team is $120, with each team guaranteed three games.

For more information and sponsorship opportunities, please contact event coordinator Bob Fraser at bobf@emeralddowns.com or 253-288-7028.

For information, visit www.emd3on3.com.