Hermiston welcomed players and their family members from surrounding areas recently for AAU’s Autumn Kickoff Classic.
More than 4,000 guests visited town for youth basketball, including about 1,000 athletes on over 80 teams and their crowds of fans. Locally, the tournament drew countless volunteers and support from business owners.
ALTV livestreamed the championship games on Sunday, which can be viewed at https://vimeo.com/showcase/aau.
AAU tournaments boost the Hermiston economy. The influx of guests is estimated to bring in over $300,000 spent in and around our community. Hermiston School District Athletic & Activities Director Larry Usher works with the Hermiston Chamber of Commerce to notify businesses and establishments of these events. Local hotels are often booked to full capacity on tournament weekends, and restaurants are steadily busy all day.
“When it comes to practices and events, organizations may use district facilities anytime for Hermiston kids,” said Usher. “We will do all that we can to help.”
The Hermiston community can expect more visitors on Dec. 2-3 for the Holiday Hoops tournament, Jan. 27-28 for the Best of the West tournament, and Feb. 10-11 for the For the Love of the Game tournament.
