Basketball, streetwear, and Tacoma community pride are coming together at the University YMCA Student Center this August.
"I think service is the biggest thing we have in common." - Faven MacInnis, Adult Sports Director, University YMCA Student Center
The YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties has partnered with local streetwear brand eTc Tacoma to create an exclusive collection featuring two T-shirts, a basketball jersey, socks, and a hat. The collaboration will be celebrated with a community basketball tournament on August 8 and 9 at the University YMCA Student Center in downtown Tacoma.
For Faven MacInnis, Adult Sports Director at the University YMCA Student Center, the partnership began with one question: Why had two organizations with strong Tacoma connections never worked together?
"I just asked them, and they were super excited," Faven said. "They were very interested, and we just went from there."
A Collaboration Rooted in Tacoma
Faven had seen eTc collaborate with organizations ranging from small Tacoma businesses to professional sports teams. She also regularly saw local basketball players wear the brand's clothing.
Pairing eTc's connection to Tacoma with the University YMCA Student Center's active basketball community felt like a natural fit.
Both organizations also share a commitment to eTc's charitable work in Tacoma and the University YMCA Student Center's efforts to create an accessible gathering place for students, YMCA members, and the broader community.
"I think service is the biggest thing we have in common," Faven said.
The collaboration also creates an opportunity to introduce more people to the University YMCA Student Center. The facility is located on the University of Washington Tacoma campus and is open to the entire community, not only students.
Bringing Tacoma Basketball and Fashion Together
The tournament will take place on the University YMCA Student Center's 94-foot NBA-size basketball court, a feature that draws players from across the area. High school athletes, current and former college players, professional players, and recreational players all use the facility.
"Basketball is a big deal in Tacoma," Faven said. "The city is just so hungry for it all the time."
Faven hopes the tournament will give younger athletes a chance to compete alongside – or even against – players they have looked up to.
"Playing against your role models, or being the professional athlete playing against somebody who looks up to you, is special for everyone," she said.
Tournament registration is open to the public and costs $75. Each registered player is guaranteed three games during the tournament and will receive a collaborative jersey and pair of socks. Proceeds from the tournament will support the Y's Annual Campaign, with funds specifically benefiting foster youth.
Everyone Has a Place at the Event
The tournament is free to attend. Visitors should bring a valid ID and complete a guest waiver when entering the University YMCA Student Center.
During the tournament weekend, eTc will host an on-site pop-up shop where guests can purchase the two T-shirts, jersey, socks, and hat from the collection. The merchandise will not be available online.
Whether someone comes to compete, watch the games, shop the collection, or support a player, Faven hopes they will find a welcoming community for them.
"If you like watching basketball but you don't play, there's a place for you here too," she said. "Really, any kind of person could find themselves enjoying their time and having a good experience here."
REGISTER FOR THE TOURNAMENT TODAY