Mall Ball '24: 3x3 Middle & High School Tournament
Micronesia Mall Crowns Champions in Two Action-Packed Mall Ball 3x3 Tournament Weekends
Dededo, GU - The Micronesia Mall Center Court transformed into a basketball battleground over two action-packed weekends as the highly anticipated Mall Ball 3x3 Tournaments concluded with new champions crowned in both high school and middle school divisions. The event, a collaboration between Micronesia Mall and Clutch Guam, showcased the island's emerging basketball talent and provided spectators with unforgettable displays of skill and sportsmanship.
High School Tournament (September 6-8, 2024)
The high school tournament kicked off the festivities with 26 teams vying for supremacy across the boys' and girls' divisions.
In a display of teamwork and determination, MVP Stars clinched the championship with a commanding 16-7 victory over Big 3 in the final. The winning team, comprising Sazzy Quintanilla, Jia Peters, Amara Del Carmen, and Angelica Chan, demonstrated exceptional chemistry throughout the tournament. Jia Peters was named the division MVP for her outstanding performance, showcasing both scoring prowess and leadership on the court.
The boys' final was a nail-biter, with YIMPACT securing a hard-fought 21-15 win against Team Islanders. Noah Cruz, Noah Tenorio, David Del Carmen, and Colin Baker formed the championship squad, with Colin Baker earning MVP honors for his outstanding performance.
The intense competition in the boys' division highlighted the depth of talent in Guam's high school basketball scene, with many players demonstrating skills that could translate to the next level.
Middle School Tournament (September 13-15, 2024)
The following weekend saw the next generation of Guam's basketball talent take center stage, with middle schoolers showcasing skills beyond their years.
In a closely contested final that had spectators on the edge of their seats, Fanihi Flyers edged out Riptide Surge 8-4. Zahna Whitehead of Fanihi Flyers was named MVP for her clutch performance in the championship game, demonstrating poise and skill that belied her years.
Ball Hogz dominated the boys' division, culminating in an impressive 11-2 victory over Team Kadu in the final. Nino Untalan from Ball Hogz was awarded the MVP title for his consistent scoring throughout the tournament, showing promise as a future star in Guam's basketball community.
The intense competition in the boys' division highlighted the depth of talent in Guam's high school basketball scene, with many players demonstrating skills that could translate to the next level.
Tournament Highlights
- A total of 43 teams participated across all divisions.
- Micronesia Mall and sponsors provided prizes with a total value of over $3,000 across the middle school and high school divisions, with even more in giveaways to players and the audience between games.
- MVP winners received special prize packages from Coast360 Federal Credit Union and merchandise from Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers.
- The tournament featured a custom 3x3 FIBA court and large digital displays updated in real-time showcasing playoff brackets and game schedules, enhancing the overall experience for players and spectators alike.
The event was further enlivened by captivating performances during breaks in play. A visiting dance group from Chung Cheong University in Korea dazzled the crowd with their choreography, while local favorites SKIP Entertainment and Guam Dance Community added to the festive atmosphere with high-energy routines.
The tournament was made possible through the support of numerous sponsors. "Slam Dunk" sponsors included MM Theatres, Denny's Restaurant at Micronesia Mall & Tamuning, Fine Builders Inc., Northern Construction, and Burger King Guam - Celebrating 35 Years. Additional support came from "Hook Shot" sponsors Infusion Coffee & Tea, Xchanged, and Bank of Guam, "Jump Shot" sponsors Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers and Graphic Center/Island Color & Copy, and "Layup" sponsor Coast360 Federal Credit Union.
Looking ahead, Micronesia Mall plans to build on the success of the Mall Ball 3x3 Tournaments with more sports and fitness events in the future. The Center Court will continue to serve as a hub for community gatherings and showcases of talent.
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