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Cleveland to Host Inaugural Winter Classic 3v3 Tournament

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. ost-inaugural-winter-classic-3v3-tournament.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, February 19th 2026 at 23:41 GMT by Cleveland Jewish News
      Locales: Ohio, UNITED STATES

Cleveland, OH - February 20th, 2026 - The Cleveland Jewish Community Center (CJCC) is gearing up to host the inaugural "The Winter Classic" 3v3 basketball tournament, presented by Ecolawn, this upcoming February 24th. This event promises not just a day of exciting basketball action, but a vibrant community gathering dedicated to supporting the vital work of PJ&J (Program for Jewish and Jewish-Friendly People).

The tournament, taking place indoors at the CJCC located at 12501 Cedar Rd, is designed to cater to a wide range of players. Multiple divisions will be established, ensuring competition is fair and engaging for various age groups and skill levels. From seasoned veterans to enthusiastic newcomers, The Winter Classic aims to create a welcoming atmosphere for all basketball enthusiasts. Registration is currently open, but time is running out - the deadline to secure a spot is February 23rd. Interested teams and individual players are encouraged to register promptly via the CJCC website ([ https://www.cjcenter.org/events/winter-classic-3v3 ]).

More Than Just a Tournament: Supporting PJ&J

The Winter Classic isn't solely about on-court competition; it's a fundraising initiative with a powerful purpose. Proceeds from the tournament will directly benefit PJ&J, a local organization dedicated to serving the needs of both Jewish individuals and those who are supportive of the Jewish community. PJ&J provides a range of essential services, including social programs, educational resources, and assistance to individuals and families facing hardship. According to Eric Litvak, Director of PJ&J, the organization is "thrilled" to partner with Ecolawn and the CJCC on this event. "It's a fantastic opportunity to bring the community together for a fun, competitive event while supporting a great cause," he stated.

The Rise of 3v3 Basketball and Community Sports The choice of a 3v3 format is no accident. 3v3 basketball has experienced a surge in popularity globally, culminating in its inclusion as an Olympic sport at the 2020 Tokyo Games. This faster-paced, more dynamic version of basketball emphasizes skill, teamwork, and continuous action, making it particularly appealing to both players and spectators. The smaller court and fewer players create a more intense and engaging experience, focusing on individual abilities and strategic play.

Local sports organizers have increasingly embraced 3v3 tournaments as a way to boost community engagement and provide accessible athletic opportunities. Unlike traditional 5v5 basketball, 3v3 requires less manpower for organization and can be easily adapted to different indoor and outdoor spaces. This adaptability is key to its growing appeal, allowing communities like Cleveland to host tournaments throughout the year, regardless of weather conditions.

A Day for the Whole Family The CJCC plans to transform the event into a full-fledged community festival. In addition to the basketball action, attendees can look forward to a lively atmosphere complete with food vendors, upbeat music, and a variety of other activities designed to entertain spectators of all ages. Organizers anticipate a strong turnout, with families and friends coming together to cheer on their favorite teams and enjoy a day of fun and camaraderie. The event aims to be inclusive and welcoming, fostering a sense of community spirit.

Ecolawn's Commitment to Community Wellness

Ecolawn's sponsorship of The Winter Classic underscores their commitment to supporting local initiatives and promoting community wellness. While details of Ecolawn's involvement beyond presenting sponsorship haven't been released, the company has a growing reputation for investing in projects that benefit the Cleveland area. Their involvement highlights a trend of businesses recognizing the importance of social responsibility and actively seeking ways to give back to the communities they serve.

The Winter Classic 3v3 Basketball Tournament represents a compelling blend of athletic competition, charitable giving, and community building. With registration closing soon, those interested in participating or simply supporting PJ&J are encouraged to visit [ https://www.cjcenter.org/events/winter-classic-3v3 ] for more information.