Empire State Review Contributor 
Nike’s premier girls’ basketball showcase, the Tournament of Champions, officially began today, July 18, 2025, at McCormick Place in Chicago. Now in its 27th year, this marquee event unites elite youth teams from across the United States and Canada, offering a four-day festival of high-level basketball and recruitment opportunities.
Hosted alongside Nike Nationals, the Tournament of Champions is unique in featuring only Nike-affiliated teams—most notably the 32 programs from its Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL), recognized as the top 17U circuit in North America. This year’s tournament occupies more than 1.5 million square feet and guarantees six games per team, ensuring that each squad gains ample competitive exposure.
Players and coaches from teams in all 50 U.S. states and every Canadian province have gathered in Chicago, creating a vibrant hub for talent scouts and collegiate recruiters. The schedule kicks off early each morning with doors opening at 8 a.m., and play continues through the final tip-off on Monday, July 21, concluding by 7 p.m.
The tournament implements a “stay-to-play” policy, requiring participants and spectators to book designated accommodations through official partners—shuttle services link downtown hotels with the venue, streamlining access and reducing travel friction. Strict security protocols, including a clear-bag policy and metal detectors, are in place to ensure a safe environment.
For elite programs like CyFair Elite—a Houston powerhouse and past champion—the Chicago stop is a pivotal moment. CyFair aims for a third national EYBL title in four years, bolstered by returning talent and a growing defensive identity. Their ambitious pursuit highlights the level of play and prestige surrounding the Tournament of Champions.
Beyond the court, the event is a major draw for exposure. College coaches, media, and industry scouts are on-site or tuning in via streaming packages. For many athletes, standout performances here can be career-defining, translating into scholarship offers and increased visibility.
Nike’s consistent investment in events like the TOC and EYBL since their inception has elevated the profile of girls’ basketball. These showcases—rooted in Nike’s sponsorship since 2012—have given hundreds of young athletes opportunities once reserved for the boys’ game. Held in a city consistently ranked as America’s top large city by Condé Nast Traveler, the event also reflects Nike’s strategy of building basketball culture within major urban centers.
In summary, the Nike Tournament of Champions in Chicago presents four days of elite-level competition, development, and recruitment. With top-tier programs competing under careful logistical planning and extensive surveillance, the event continues shaping the future of women’s basketball in North America—crowned by the excitement of unexpected breakout stars and recruitment breakthroughs.
