News Summary
Memphis, Tennessee, is gearing up to host the prestigious Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) at the Memphis Sports and Events Center. The event will attract over 4,000 attendees, including more than 400 college coaches, and is projected to generate an economic impact of over $4.5 million for the local economy. Alongside the EYBL, visitors can enjoy the Smokeslam Barbecue Festival and Memphis in May, enhancing the overall experience. The MSEC has already established itself as a key venue for major sports events, reinforcing Memphis’s status as a youth sports destination.
Memphis, Tennessee is set to host the prestigious Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL) from May 16-18, drawing significant attention as one of the largest youth basketball tournaments in the United States. The event, occurring at the Memphis Sports and Events Center (MSEC), is expected to attract over 4,000 attendees, including more than 400 college coaches looking to scout emerging talent during live recruiting sessions.
The anticipated economic impact of the EYBL on Memphis’s local economy is considerable, with projections estimating over $4.5 million generated during the weekend. The influx of visitors is expected to result in more than 8,000 hotel night bookings, greatly benefiting the local hospitality industry. The event aligns with the Smokeslam Barbecue Festival and Memphis in May, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of local experiences in addition to the basketball competitions.
The MSEC, which has already become a popular venue since its opening, is collaborating with Nike and Memphis Tourism to ensure the success of the tournament. The facility has successfully hosted 630,000 visitors in its first year of operation, leading to an estimated economic impact of nearly $40 million. Kiyla Glasper, the general manager of MSEC, has a strong connection to the facility, previously serving as its tournament director and playing a pivotal role in its operations.
The MSEC’s attributes, including high-quality amenities that meet Nike’s standards, have made it a sought-after venue for major sporting events. Last year’s EYBL featured top high school talents like AJ Dybansta and Kiyan Anthony, drawing attention from basketball enthusiasts and coaches alike. This year, participation from local programs such as Team Thad further emphasizes the importance of the event in the community.
The facility, which cost $60 million to build and took over 15 years to develop, is gaining interest not just from Nike but also from other prominent sports brands like PUMA and New Balance, indicating a booming trend for sports events in Memphis. As the EYBL continues to thrive in Memphis for a third consecutive year, local officials and stakeholders remain optimistic about the ongoing economic benefits of hosting such high-profile events.
Overall, the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League serves as a significant milestone for Memphis, showcasing its capacity to host large-scale events while contributing to its economic growth. The excitement surrounding the basketball tournament, coupled with complementary festivities, presents a vibrant atmosphere for both local residents and visitors, reinforcing Memphis’s position as a key destination for youth sports.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Local Memphis
- Action News 5
- Commercial Appeal
- Daily Memphian
- Google Search: Memphis Sports and Events Center
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
