URGENT UPDATE: The highly anticipated 69th annual Emmett Thompson Memorial Dad’s Club Basketball Tournament is set to kick off Thursday, December 7, 2023, at Kaiser Permanente Arena in Santa Cruz, with games running through Saturday. This year’s tournament features a fierce lineup of eight teams, all fresh off playoff appearances.
The action begins at 3:30 p.m. with Soquel taking on Willow Glen, followed by Central Catholic against Monterey at 5 p.m., San Luis Obispo versus Los Gatos at 6:30 p.m., and Santa Cruz facing Scotts Valley at 8 p.m..
Coaches and teams are gearing up for what promises to be an electrifying showcase. Valley Christian of San Jose, the defending champions, will return to defend their title after defeating San Luis Obispo 74-52 last year. Coach Lawan Milhouse of Santa Cruz expressed confidence in a “pretty good field,” looking to start strong despite fielding a notably young roster with only one returning starter, Kaden Miritz.
As anticipation builds, the tournament represents not just athletic competition but also community spirit. Saturday, December 9, will also see the sixth annual Jacob’s Heart Pediatric Cancer Shootout, hosted by Santa Cruz High. This event aims to raise $6,000 for families battling pediatric cancer, with all programs from the Santa Cruz Coast Athletic League participating.
Admission to the Shootout is $10, with 100% of proceeds going directly to Jacob’s Heart. Coach Todd Trowbridge emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “Fighting cancer is more important than playing basketball.” Participants will show their support by wearing special event shirts, reinforcing the community’s commitment to this vital cause.
The schedule for the Shootout is equally packed, kicking off with Soquel facing Notre Dame of Belmont at 9 a.m. on Saturday. Varsity action continues throughout the day, with key matchups including Scotts Valley against North Monterey County at 1:30 p.m. and Santa Cruz taking on Burlingame at 3 p.m.
Coach Milhouse stated, “This season is gonna be very interesting,” as the Cardinals prepare for a challenging preseason schedule that includes the Saint Francis Showcase and the Damian Lillard Classic later in December.
With both tournaments filling the arena with excitement and community engagement, fans are encouraged to attend and support not only their teams but also the crucial cause behind the Pediatric Cancer Shootout.
Stay tuned for updates as teams vie for victory and support worthy causes in this thrilling basketball season!
