Free Summer Basketball Action In West Hartford, What You Need To Know

WEST HARTFORD, CT — Because of the University of Connecticut's hoops prowess at the men's and women's levels, Connecticut has adopted the "basketball capital of the world" moniker.

But exciting basketball can be seen beyond Storrs and the resurrection of a popular summer league, featuring pro and college players from throughout the nation, starts Sunday in West Hartford.

Following years of fiscal and Covid impacts, the Greater Hartford Pro-Am Summer Basketball League tips off Sunday at the University of Saint Joseph's James A. Calhoun Gymnasium., 1678 Asylum Ave., West Hartford. It is the league's 25th season.

What's even more exciting, however, is the price to take your family to enjoy some fast-paced, hoops action. Admission is free for all games. Just walk right in and grab a seat.

That tiny detail could make "The Jim" a hoops hotspot this summer.

"The Jim" is named after Calhoun, who not only led UConn to three national championships en route to the basketball hall of fame, but was USJ's first-ever men's basketball coach when the university went co-ed several years ago.

Sponsored by Hartford Healthcare, the league's games feature sponsored teams comprised of top hoops talent from colleges and professional leagues.

For example, the Hartford Yard Goats minor league baseball team sponsors one basketball squad, with other teams sponsored by Cantor Colburn LLP, Crumbie Law Group and Sign Pro, among other teams.

"The games give local players and players from across the country the opportunity to learn lifetime leadership skills and keep playing in the offseason," wrote the league in an announcement this week.

"It also allows powerhouse players the chance to come back to Connecticut, setting the stage for high-energy competition."

Sunday's first day of competition offers up a tripleheader, with games at 3 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.

From there, games will take place every Sunday, Monday and Wednesday evening through Aug. 17, when the league's championship series is set to conclude.

More than basketball, however, will be on tap as the league's sponsor, Hartford Healthcare, will set up booths via its "Neighborhood Health Team" and Life Star helicopter.

There, fans will be able to get health tips, blood pressure screening and CPR demonstrations.

For more information on the Greater Hartford Summer Pro-Am Basketball, visit this link.

From March 31: 'Prestigious Summer Hoops League Coming To West Hartford'

From Nov. 4, 2022: 'St. Joseph Names Gym After Calhoun'