By Kevin Tidmarsh for LAist
Originally published on August 18, 2026
Topline:
If players at your local basketball court says you have the best jump shot in the city, LA’s inaugural Hoops Challenge is giving you a chance to prove it.
About the game: This won’t be a pickup game, it’s an individual challenge. Players will try to put the most points on the board by themselves.
Who can compete: Anyone age 8 and older can compete. There’ll be boys’ and girls’ divisions for ages 8 to 10, 11 to 14 and 15-17, and men’s and women’s divisions for 18-49, and 50+. Category placement is determined by a person’s age as of as of Jan. 1, 2026.
When to play: There will be three rounds. The first is set for Sept. 12 at 36 L.A. Recreation and Parks facilities across the city. That will be followed by four regional competitions on Sept. 19, and a final competition on Sept. 26.
About the competition: The winner of the citywide competition in each age division will win a grand prize — no word yet on what that will be.
You can choose your preferred time when you sign up for the first round, but times for regional and final competitions will be pre-determined based on age groups.
How to join: It will cost $5 to register. The city recommends early registrations because spaces may fill up.
Walk-ins are not accepted. Find your local recreation center and register here.
