Valley hosting Hoophall West high school basketball tournament

PHOENIX — Valley basketball fans can check out potential future college and NBA stars this weekend in Phoenix.

The first ever Hoophall West high school tournament tournament is at Grand Canyon University Arena. It’s a western version of the Naismith Hall of Fame’s Hoophall Classic that takes place this January in Springfield, Mass.

Hoophall West Chairman Jerry Colangelo is excited for the event.

“It’s a great opportunity for people who love high school basketball to see some of the really best players and teams. For the people involved in the recruiting area of college basketball, it’s a great opportunity to see some players,” Colangelo said. “More importantly, It’s just bringing more basketball into our community, and, to me, that’s what it’s all about. Raising the bar. Raising the interest.”

Colangelo said that several top teams from Arizona high schools will be playing.

“Corona Del Sol, Chapparral, Westview, Mesquite, Desert Mountain, Gilbert High, Shadow Mountain and Milennium,” said Colangelo.

There were also be schools from California and other states.

The tournament features several players who could become college stars.

“One player who is ranked number nine on the ESPN top 100 is Stanley Johnson of Mater Dei High School (in California),” Colangelo said. “He’s already committed to the University of Arizona.”

The two-day tournament features eight games, four on Friday and four on Saturday.

For Hoophall West ticket information click herehttp://thehoophallclassic.com/west/ticket_info.php.