Best Elder Ballers In Evanston To Qualify For National Senior Games

EVANSTON, IL — For the first time, the annual 3-on-3 basketball tournament that raises money for Levy Senior Center is set to serve as the state qualifier for the Illinois Senior Olympics.

The "Hoops for the Ages" tournament, now in its third year, takes place Saturday, starting at 9 a.m., at the Robert Crown Community Center and Levy Senior Center in Evanston.

More than 300 people are expected to take part, ranging in age from 50 to more than 80 years old.

“We wanted to create a basketball tournament that celebrates senior basketball. You CAN play basketball at any age," said tournament organizer Rob Bady. "Basketball keeps us moving, delivers a great cardio workout, and is a lot of fun.”

In addition to the age-specific competitions, the tournament also features a special category for participants aged 40-49, who will compete for Hoops for the Ages medals.

“Most senior tournaments begin with players 50 years old. We are opening this tournament to players age 40+ because we want to introduce them to playing basketball for life," Bady said.

The top three teams in the age brackets of 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, and 80+ will each vie for top honors and a chance to compete on the national stage at the National Senior Games in Des Moines, Iowa, in July 2025.

Local businesses and community members have shown strong support through sponsorships and volunteering, reflecting the community’s enthusiasm and support for the event.

The format for the games includes two 12-minute halves with a 4-minute halftime. Each team is allowed two timeouts per half, ensuring a dynamic and fast-paced competition.

The tournament's rules are adapted for 3-on-3 play, requiring players to clear the ball past the three-point line on each possession change, which adds a strategic element to the games.

The event benefits the Levy Senior Center Foundation, the nonprofit arm that helps support the upkeep of the city-owned center.

Judy Newton, chair of the foundation, said Hoops for the Ages aligns with the goals of the foundation to support the center and local seniors.

"This tournament is a program that checks all the boxes," Newton said. "It keeps older adults active. It promotes independent living. It keeps people connected through teams and friendship. We invite the community to attend the free tournament to experience senior basketball.”