The country's largest gay and lesbian basketball tournament goes global—and honors one of its most famous players. The University of Illinois-Chicago played host to the annual Chicago Hoops Classic April 17-18.
Expanding to 28 teams in its 14th year, the Hoops Classic welcomed its first international team, the London Cruisers. The tournament also added an over-35 division for players still wanting to display their skills at a less competitive level.
'Always a great opportunity to be a part of an event like this, on any level.' said Larry Kuhn, player in the over-35 Division.
Voting for the inaugural Martin Williams Memorial Most Valuable Player Award ended in a tie with two players from the New York Ballers receiving the award.
Martin Williams is a legend in the gay basketball community. He was part of the International Gay Games as well as numerous Chicago Hoops Classic tournaments. Williams is missed not only for his quick moves on the court, but his quick wit and love for the community, said Ted Cappas, tournament director.
'It was during last year's tournament that it was announced how sick Martin was and the he probably wouldn't make it. There was such an outpouring of love and emotion from our gay basketball community. It was very moving. Unfortunately, Martin wasn't with us to hear these wonderful sentiments. It was at that time that I decided we should award an MVP trophy and name it after Martin,' Cappas said.
Williams died in August 2003 from cancer.
Next year brings even more changes for the tournament. Celebrating its 15th year and its founder, the Chicago Hoops Classic changes its official name to the Coady Roundball Classic in 2005. Sam Coady founded the tournament in 1990. Only six teams played in that inaugural tournament.
'The tournament gave us all a place where we could share a passion for the sport in an accepting and open environment. The tournament is about empowerment, especially for the younger athletes in their first couple of years. This empowerment through sport transfers into self confidence, improving one's community and improving others' lives,' Coady said.
The Coady Roundball Classic is scheduled for April 2005 again at The University of Illinois-Chicago. Visit www.wcaa.net .