There’s a free basketball and hip-hop festival happening in Melbourne next weekend
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30.10.2024

There’s a free basketball and hip-hop festival happening in Melbourne next weekend

Melbourne
📸: @itsmarkgregory
Words by Staff Writer

Champion’s King of the Court returns to Melbourne with international talent and a fresh line-up.

Champion’s King of the Court, Australia’s premier street basketball tournament, is set to return to Melbourne this spring, bringing together basketball, music, and community for a high-energy day of competition. Scheduled for Saturday, 9 November, at RMIT A’Beckett Urban Square in Melbourne’s CBD, this seventh edition promises exciting new additions, including enhanced competitions and exclusive on-site experiences.

This year’s event expands on previous tournaments with added features for players and spectators alike.

King of the Court

  • King of the Court 3×3 and 1×1: Fast-paced games held on a half-court with distinct rules, offering $3,000 for 3×3 champions and $1,000 for 1×1 winners.
  • Dunk competition: Showcasing athleticism and creativity, with the top dunker taking home $1,000.
  • Who’s Got Next: A freestyle rap tournament spotlighting emerging hip-hop artists with a prize of $1,000.
  • Fade stations and merchandise stalls: Spectators can get fresh cuts from Kings Domain Barbers and shop exclusive Champion merchandise.
  • Food & Beverage: Options include Mr Latinos Cantina, The Real Jerk, Red Bull, and Superboost.
  • Half-time performances: Featured DJ sets from Soju Gang and DJ Smilez.

Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around Melbourne here.

 

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A post shared by KOTC MELBOURNE (@kingofthecourt.melb)

This year also introduces Queen of the Court, a dedicated 3×3 competition for top female players from around Australia. With players from the US, Japan, South Korea, and France joining the roster, King of the Court continues its commitment to inclusivity, uniting international and local talent in a celebration of sport and culture.

Founder Mitch Lang shared his enthusiasm for the tournament’s growth: “Each year, we strive to push the boundaries and create something far more than just a basketball event. We’re thrilled to welcome international players to this year’s tournament—a true testament to how King of the Court is uniting people from around the globe through the powerful blend of sport, music, and culture.”

Champion’s support as the naming sponsor brings an added layer of excitement, with exclusive merchandise and immersive activations planned. Champion Australia and New Zealand brand manager Rory O’Halloran emphasised, “This event is about celebrating community, creativity, and the culture that defines streetball. We’re excited to partner with Mitch and contribute to KOTC’s growth with exclusive merchandise, on-site experiences, and opportunities for fans to engage with both brands on a deeper level.”

This year’s tournament will showcase local and international talent, including players such as Josh Sykes (USA), Kyuho Lee (South Korea), and Guy Landri (France), alongside top Australian players from Victoria, New South Wales, and beyond.

For fans and participants alike, Champion’s King of the Court is an unmatched celebration of streetball culture, providing an electrifying day of sport and community. Registrations are now open for those eager to join the tournament, which has become a highlight in Melbourne’s sports and cultural calendar.

For more details and registration, visit kingofthecourt.org.