War Hoops Labor Day crowd pleaser

The Choctaw Labor Day Festival would not be complete without its sports competitions. One of the most popular is the War Hoops basketball tournament.

The tournament was started around 25 years ago by Kevin and Tammye Gwin and Councilman James Dry. The idea for the tournament began when the three noticed children attending the festival playing pick-up basketball between softball tournaments.

“Back then, there was a charge for teams to enter an event at the Labor Day Festival, so we weren’t sure if it would be a success or not, but the tournament filled up on Saturday morning the first year, and it was a huge success,” said Kevin Gwin.

The tournament, now free to enter, is still a favorite, drawing players from all over the country. It is an excellent means to unite current and past teammates, families, and friends.
With designated age divisions for children up to the “old timers,” there’s a chance for everyone who pre-registers to play in the all-day tournament.

This year’s tournament check-in begins Saturday, August 31, at 8:30 a.m. at Red Warrior Park on the festival grounds at Tvshka Homma. The tournament starts at 10:00 a.m.
All participants must register.