Spokane, Washington is gearing up for the 36th Annual Hoopfest, a beloved basketball tournament that draws participants from across the region. However, with gas prices remaining high, some families and players might reconsider their travel plans.

Riley Stockton, the executive director of Hoopfest, reports that while overall participation numbers are consistent with previous years, there is a noticeable shift in where attendees are coming from. ‘We’ve actually seen an increase from the state of Idaho, from Oregon and from Montana, and then, like, our other states,’ Stockton noted.

The timing of the tournament coincides with elevated gas prices nationwide. According to AAA, the national average for a gallon of gas was $4.32 as of Monday night, with Washington state averaging $5.70 per gallon. Despite these challenges, Hoopfest’s generational appeal and festive atmosphere continue to attract participants. ‘There are a lot of people that, you know, their dads played in Hoopfest, then they’re playing at Hoopfest, and now their kids are playing at Hoopfest,’ Stockton shared. ‘You can come down to Hoopfest and have a really fun experience without spending a ton of money.’

Last year, Hoopfest contributed approximately $47 million to the local economy. With final registration closing soon, Stockton remains hopeful that this year’s event will continue to draw players, families, and visitors to Spokane. ‘Hoopfest is around because of the community of Spokane,’ he emphasized.

Original reporting: KREM Spokane — read the source article.