Hoops Classic Marks 30 Years of Impact
KEENE, TEX. – For three decades, the Hoops Classic basketball tournament has been a cornerstone tradition at Southwestern Adventist University (SWAU), shaping generations of student-athletes through competition rooted in faith, character and community.
Established in 1996, the annual tournament draws hundreds of high school athletes to Keene for four days of basketball, fellowship and spiritual engagement. As SWAU marks the 30th anniversary of Hoops Classic, the event is recognized as one of the largest and longest-running Christian high school basketball tournaments in the North American Division.
The vision for Hoops Classic emerged during the 1995–1996 academic year under then-president Marvin Anderson at a time when the athletics program was still developing. Brent Baldwin, then men’s basketball coach, and Victor Brown, the university’s head chaplain, proposed hosting a tournament that would bring academy athletes to campus, showcase their skills and introduce them to university life. What began as a recruitment initiative quickly became a signature event blending athletics, faith and community.
Since its inception, Hoops Classic has grown from an inter-academy event into a nationally recognized tournament. In peak years, it has hosted between 48 and 56 teams, welcoming more than 750 athletes, coaches and families. Games are held at multiple venues across Johnson County, creating an atmosphere marked by energy, sportsmanship and a strong sense of Christian community.
While known for competitive play, the tournament emphasizes holistic development, promoting teamwork, discipline, humility and leadership on and off the court.
“Hoops Classic is an opportunity for high school student-athletes to fellowship and compete in a Christ-centered environment,” said Tyler Wooldridge, director of athletics and facilities. “This event is significant for the university, as it allows us to showcase all that Southwestern Adventist University has to offer. I look forward to welcoming participants each year and hope to recruit some of them to become part of our campus family.”
Spiritual programming remains central to the event, with worship services, vespers, music and testimonies woven throughout the weekend. These experiences often provide students with their first exposure to a Christian college environment.
Hosting Hoops Classic has become a campus-wide ministry. Visiting students and families tour residence halls, attend worship gatherings, dine in the cafeteria and interact with current students, faculty and staff.
“While basketball brings students to campus, it is not the only reason they leave impacted,” said James The, vice president for student services and longtime Hoops Classic coordinator. “Our hope is that every visitor experiences genuine hospitality, builds lifelong friendships and begins to envision themselves as future Southwestern students.”
For many, the experience leaves a lasting impression. One former participant who later enrolled at SWAU said the tournament played a key role in that decision.
“I came for the competition, but what stayed with me was the sense of purpose and community,” the alumnus said. “That weekend showed me that faith, academics and athletics could work together.”
Over the years, the tournament has expanded to include multiple divisions, ensuring competitive play for schools of varying sizes. Livestreaming has also broadened its reach, allowing families and supporters from around the world to follow the games.
More than 65 academies and Christian schools have participated in the Hoops Classic, representing thousands of student-athletes. As SWAU celebrates this milestone, the tournament continues to demonstrate the enduring impact of athletics in building community, strengthening faith and connecting students to opportunities.
