By Danny Waldo
Look out Bozeman, the town is about to be overrun by hundreds of youth looking to put on their best Stephen Curry or Lebron James impersonation. That’s because Bozeman is once again playing host to the state’s largest middle school travel team tournament, The Hardwood Classic. The Hardwood Classic is slated to run January 30 and 31st, with games running from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, and 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, with ages ranging from 4th grade up to 8th grade for both boys and girls. Champions will be awarded in each age group. Teams travel from all over the state for the two-day event that is put on by the Bozeman Basketball Club in conjunction with the Bozeman Hawk boys’ basketball program. The Hardwood Classic serves as a fundraiser for the Hawks, with the money used to pay for equipment, gear and summer camps. Last year, nearly 100 teams participated in the First Annual Classic, with over 200 games being played across 10 different courts around Bozeman. Games were held at Bozeman High, Chief Joseph Middle School, Sacajawea Middle School, Hyalite Elementary, Meadowlark Elementary and Anderson School. This is the premier middle school basketball tournament in the region, and participation is limited to first come, first serve until all brackets are full. Organizers expect over 100 teams to participate in this year’s field. The format for the tournament is two 20-minute halves with running clock, with additional time added for overtime. All games are officiated by certified MOA officials from the local pool and across the state, giving the games an in-season feel, something organizers felt added to the prestige of the tournament a year ago. So, if you’re looking for some exciting youth basketball, be sure to check out The Hardwood Classic in Bozeman, January 30/31st. For more information on game schedules or gym locations, log on to The Hardwood Classic’s website at www.bozemanhardwoodclassic.com or follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BozemanHardwoodClassic. •
