By JIM WALKER

Tribune Sports Editor

 

Like a fine wine, the annual Memorial Day men’s basketball tournament keeps getting better with age.

Bruce Royal of Royal Photography has been the man behind the tournament over the past few years and he says the annual event continues to improve.

“The competition every year seems to get better. I expect an incredible tournament this year,” said Royal.

The tournament draws teams from more than three states and includes former Ironton alumni, Shawnee State University alumni players and former Marshall players.

Also on the tournament list includes former semi-pro players and other colleges such as Louisville.

The tournament entry fee is $10 per player and includes the team jersey. Profits from the tournament are used to pay officials or to defray costs toward next year’s tournament.

“We’ve had other sponsors and individuals step up and help. It’s a good community event,” said Royal.

Some sponsors include Bellefonte Hospital’s Cardiology Unit, Ohio River Bank and dentist Nick Medinger as well as Royal Photography.

The tournament is held at the Ninth Street Park in Ironton.

Games begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday and lay will continue until approximately 8 p.m. Sunday’s games start at 10 a.m. and will end at about 6 p.m.