With registration still open for nearly two more weeks, the annual SilverHoops 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament is already setting records heading into its 2026 edition, with organizers expressing strong confidence that this year could become one of the biggest events in the tournament’s history.
The tournament, set for July 25–26 in Kellogg, closed its early registration period with 97 teams signed up — the highest early-registration figure the event has ever recorded. That number has tournament committee members optimistic about reaching their target of more than 200 teams by the time the field is finalized.
Registration remains open through July 19, though teams signing up after July 15 will face additional late fees. Competition will take place at Teeters Field and Kellogg City Park, drawing participants from across North Idaho, Eastern Washington, and Western Montana.
A Format Built to Deliver Value
One of the noteworthy changes to this year’s event is a restructured competition format. SilverHoops has moved away from its traditional two-day double-elimination bracket in favor of pool play on Saturday followed by single-elimination rounds on Sunday. The shift guarantees every team a minimum of four games — a significant improvement for squads that travel long distances to compete.
The tournament also continues to offer paid officials specifically for youth division games, a feature that sets SilverHoops apart from many comparable regional events and helps ensure competitive fairness for younger athletes. Age brackets run from players entering third grade all the way through adult men’s and women’s divisions, making SilverHoops a genuine all-ages community event.
Tournament organizer Ethan Wendt pointed to the tournament’s reputation for giving participants their money’s worth as a key factor in its continued growth. “A big part of why SilverHoops continues to grow is word of mouth, a shared love of basketball, the competitive spirit of the tournament, and the fact that teams know they are going to get their money’s worth,” Wendt said.
Wendt also noted excitement about expanded vendor offerings alongside the record registration numbers. “We are hoping for another 200-plus team year, and we are excited to have more vendor variety than ever before,” he said.
Slam Dunk Contest and Community Amenities Round Out the Weekend
Beyond the bracket competition, the weekend includes a fan-favorite Slam Dunk Contest on Saturday, sponsored by Jim’s Towing, with cash prizes awarded for first, second, and third place. The contest has long been a crowd-drawing highlight and gives spectators additional entertainment beyond the on-court basketball action.
Families attending the event will also have access to free community swimming at the Kellogg City Park pool — a benefit that adds recreational value for players and fans during what is typically one of the hottest weekends of the Silver Valley summer.
Holding the title of largest 3-on-3 tournament in North Idaho, SilverHoops has become a meaningful economic driver for Kellogg, pulling hundreds of athletes and their families into the community for a full weekend. Hotels, restaurants, and local businesses throughout the Silver Valley typically see a noticeable boost from the influx of out-of-town visitors during the event.
The late July timing places SilverHoops right in the middle of a busy summer stretch for Kellogg and Wallace. Just two weeks prior, Wallace is hosting the Wallace Music Fest on July 10–11, a free two-stage outdoor event that is also drawing significant community interest this season.
What Comes Next
Teams interested in participating in SilverHoops 2026 have until July 19 to register, though those who miss the July 15 early-registration cutoff will be subject to additional fees. With 97 teams already locked in and the registration window still open, organizers are well-positioned to challenge or surpass prior years’ totals. The tournament tips off at Teeters Field and Kellogg City Park on Saturday, July 25, with championship rounds concluding on Sunday, July 26. For more Idaho community and sports coverage, visit IdahoNews.co.