WITH the aim of concluding an unprecedented year for the Streetball format, the eagerly anticipated and inaugural Dragon Stout Street-ball ‘Community Cup’ will officially kick-off this evening at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue with eight slated elimination matches. 

In the opening match, Avocado Ballers will oppose North East La Penitence from 19:00hrs, while Sophia battle Festival City from 19:30hrs and Leopold St tackle Ansa All-Stars at 20:00hrs. In the fourth affair, Gold is Money will match skills with Mocha from 20:30hrs while Future Stars tackle Albouystown at 21:00hrs and Rio All-Stars battle Alexander Village from 21:30hrs.

In the final two matches, Bent Street take aim at Broad Street from 22:00hrs and Sparta face off with Showstoppers at 22:30hrs.

According to an official release from Dragon Stout Brand Manager, Jamal Baird, “Tonight is the start of an exciting project which I envision will catapult the brand into the realm and conversation of being a viable staple within the Streetball fraternity. The objective is simple: don’t lose. With the championship being contested utilizing an elimination format, a simple mistake could be the difference between the joy of victory and the agony of defeat as there is no safety of the group stage.”

Baird further stated, “I want to reiterate to the spectators and players that all systems and structures have been formulated to ensure a memorable event that will leave a lasting impression in the minds of everyone. There is a genuine atmosphere of excitement amongst the competing teams and communities which bodes well for the successful staging of the championship. I am truly excited for the tournament and the festivities to begin, as we aim to conclude 2019 with the proverbial bang.”

The second playing date will be December 19th, with the semi-final and grand finale pegged for December 28th. 16 teams will contest the opening night, with the resulting eight winners advancing to the quarterfinal round. Upon the conclusion of the final eight section, the semi-final and final will occur on the final night of proceedings.

The winner of the tournament will pocket $300,000 and the championship trophy. On the other hand, the runner-up will collect $150,000. Meanwhile, the third and fourth place finishers will receive $75,000 and $50,000 respectively and the corresponding accolade.