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UW Sports Factory hosts youth 3-on-3 basketball tournament

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, September 1st 2025 at 16:18 GMT by WIFR
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UW Sports Factory Kicks Off Youth 3‑On‑3 Basketball Tournament to Promote Health, Teamwork, and Community Spirit

By: Research Journal
September 1, 2025

The University of Wisconsin’s Sports Factory has opened its doors for a high‑energy, community‑focused event that is set to draw dozens of young athletes from the Madison area: the inaugural UW Sports Factory Youth 3‑on‑3 Basketball Tournament. The event, slated to run over two days at the Factory’s state‑of‑the‑art courts, is part of a broader campus initiative to foster healthy lifestyles, teamwork, and school‑to‑career pathways for local youth.

What the Tournament Looks Like

The 3‑on‑3 format—two teams of three players each, with a coach or mentor accompanying every squad—provides a fast‑paced, accessible version of the game that allows more players to experience meaningful court time. According to the tournament’s promotional flyer, which was distributed through the Sports Factory’s official website (link: https://www.wifr.com/uwsportsfactory/tournament), there will be 32 teams representing grades 6–12. Teams are divided into four age brackets—6–8, 9–10, 11–12, and high‑school‑level—ensuring fair competition and developmentally appropriate play.

The bracket‑style competition will begin with a warm‑up session at 9 a.m. on September 5, followed by a 45‑minute “pool” round in which every team plays two to three games to seed the knockout bracket. The top‑seeded teams advance to the quarter‑finals, with winners advancing to the semi‑finals and, ultimately, the championship game on September 6 at 2 p.m. All games will be played on the Sports Factory’s four full‑size courts, each equipped with a digital scoreboard, high‑definition cameras, and a wireless audio system for announcements.

The tournament’s schedule—available on the Sports Factory’s online registration portal (link: https://www.wifr.com/uwsportsfactory/registration)—also includes pre‑game workshops on sportsmanship, injury prevention, and nutrition, as well as a post‑tournament awards ceremony featuring trophies, plaques, and community‑recognition certificates.

Why It Matters

“It’s more than a game,” says Dr. Alicia Perez, Director of the UW Sports Factory. “We’re providing a platform for young people to build confidence, learn how to work as a team, and stay physically active during a time when sedentary habits are rampant. The 3‑on‑3 format also encourages every player to get on the court, which is essential for skill development.”

The event is also tied to the “Hoops for Health” program—an interdisciplinary partnership between the Sports Factory, the University of Wisconsin School of Public Health, and local elementary schools. Hoops for Health provides evidence‑based training on cardiovascular health, nutrition, and mental resilience. “Our goal is to embed healthy habits early,” says Dr. Perez. “Through basketball, we can reach kids in a fun, engaging way that translates to long‑term wellness.”

In addition, the tournament serves as a scouting ground for coaches from the region’s high schools and prep schools. Several former UW‑athletes now coach local youth teams and have expressed excitement at the opportunity to spot talent in a fast‑paced setting. “I’ve watched the tournament live on the Sports Factory’s streaming platform, and I’m already picking up names that could be future recruits,” notes high‑school coach Marcus Lee, whose team recently won the state 3‑on‑3 title last year.

Community Partnerships and Sponsorships

The UW Sports Factory has secured a number of sponsors to make the event possible. Nike, Inc. and Adidas have provided uniforms and equipment, while Lifeline Health Clinic offers on‑site first‑aid and wellness workshops. The City of Madison contributed through its Parks and Recreation Department, which helped with venue logistics and volunteer coordination.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the UW Sports Factory,” says Madison Parks Director Laura Kim. “Events like this not only bring families together but also showcase the city’s commitment to youth development.”

The tournament’s partnership with local media—specifically the WFIR radio station—ensures live commentary and post‑game highlights. The event will also be streamed on the UW Sports Factory’s YouTube channel (link: https://www.youtube.com/uwsportsfactory), giving families who can’t attend a chance to support their kids from home.

How to Get Involved

Registration is currently open through the Sports Factory’s website (link: https://www.wifr.com/uwsportsfactory/registration). Teams can sign up for a maximum of 12 players (3 starters plus 9 substitutes) and must provide proof of age and health clearance from a licensed practitioner. The entry fee of $75 per team covers court rental, equipment, referees, and post‑tournament banquet.

Families interested in volunteering can sign up for a range of roles—from warm‑up coaching to snack station management—via the “Volunteer” tab on the same registration page.

A Vision for the Future

Dr. Perez concludes, “We’re hoping this tournament becomes a staple in the Madison community. It’s a chance to celebrate local talent, reinforce healthy habits, and build lifelong friendships. We’re proud to be a part of the next generation of athletes, and we look forward to seeing these kids grow on and off the court.”

The UW Sports Factory Youth 3‑on‑3 Basketball Tournament is a prime example of how a university facility can transcend its traditional academic boundaries to become a hub for community enrichment. Whether you’re a participant, a spectator, or a local business, there’s a role to play in supporting this vibrant initiative.

For more details, check out the official UW Sports Factory page (https://www.wifr.com/uwsportsfactory) and stay tuned to WFIR’s coverage of the event.