LEWES, Del.- Teams from across the country are in Lewes this week, competing in the Slam Dunk to the Beach basketball tournament.
High school teams from Arizona, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and more are at Cape Henlopen High School. The three day tournament has hosted some big names in basketball in the past, including Lebron James and Mo Bamba.
"You know we are excited. We have some of the best teams and the best players in the country here in Sussex County. They're ready to play and we're ready to offer some great basketball for our fans," said Matthew J. Robinson, chairman of the tournament.
Last year's tournament was canceled because of COVID but it's back on this year with some COVID precautions. Some teams did end up dropping out but the games are still going on. Athletes are just asked to wear masks even when playing and everyone is encouraged to socially distance.
This is the first year girls teams are playing, including the girls Cape Henlopen team. The number two player in the country from the Westtown School is also competing.
"The reputation of our tournament now, we have schools calling us. They know it's a first class event, it's run well, they know they're going to get good competition. We have college coaches here identifying as part of the recruiting process," said Robinson.
An exciting time for basketball fans, athletes, and local businesses. Southern Delaware Tourism says visitors for the tournament bring in over 1-million dollars.
"With the coaches, the scouts, their families that brings in a lot of out of towners. A lot of times it's their first time visiting Delaware or the Cape region," said Scott Thomas with Southern Delaware Tourism.
The last day of the tournament is Wednesday, December 29. See the full list of teams and the schedule here.