Bob Jones University Hosts National Hoops Ministries Tournament

Bob Jones University, in partnership with National Hoops Ministries (NHM), is hosting a national 3-on-3 basketball tournament this week on the BJU campus.

Players from across the country are participating in the tournament camp and BJU Bruin coaches and players are serving as counselors and assistants to the NHM staff.  With daily skills sessions, chapel and 3-on-3 tournaments, players are able to develop both basketball and life skills.

"We promote using sports as a platform for ministry and this camp is a practical application of our mission," Bruins' Athletics Director and men's basketball coach Neal Ring said. "I believe in the model National Hoops follows."

Mike Washer, a 1999 graduate of BJU, started National Hoops Ministries (NHM) through his church in Spartanburg.  The church would host a 3-on-3 basketball tournament each year where participants would compete with the eventual prize being a trip to the NBA All-Star Game festivities. Participants are also given the Gospel through devotionals and one-on-one interaction.

"Basketball is just a simple tool," said Washer. "The ministry is not about basketball, but about Christ - and seeing needy souls come to know Him."

As the tournament's popularity grew, many recommended taking this unique ministry "on the road." NHM began as a small-town event in Spartanburg and has become a nationwide tournament with dozens of teams.

"My hope is that we all grow in our passion to use sports as a platform for ministry," Ring said. "I pray we experience God's blessing and see young men whose lives are being impacted through this ministry make a difference on their teams and in their communities."

Members of the community are welcome to attend a special Friday night "showcase" in which players will compete in a skills competition, 3-point shooting contest as well as the 3-on-3 championship. The festivities begin at 7 p.m.  in the Davis Field House on the BJU campus. There is no charge for the event.