There is nothing like the Hoop Shoot National Finals. The 10,000-seat Wintrust Arena is pin drop silent as 72 of the best youth free throwers in the nation vie for the six National Championships. All you can hear is your heart pounding and the soft scratch of pencils on paper as the people around you keep score.
If you can’t make it to Chicago on April 18 to catch the action in person, we’ve got you covered! We’ll be streaming the entire contest live through the ENF’s YouTube channel, complete with commentary from Hoop Shoot experts and BackBoard members alike.
The Finalists advanced undefeated through multiple rounds of increasingly difficult competition to unleash their grit and compete on the national stage—and that’s something to celebrate. Consider hosting a viewing party at your Lodge! Bring your favorite snacks, wear the Hoop Shoot colors, and show your community the importance of the Hoop Shoot! Feel free to cheer to your heart’s content!
Jim O'Kelley, ENF Director
Since 1992, Jim O’Kelley has been telling Hoop Shoot stories in some form. The director of the Elks National Foundation, which funds the Hoop Shoot, O’Kelley returns to handle the play by play on the live broadcast. With clever quips and amusing anecdotes, O’Kelley’s extensive history with the program provides insight and entertainment for all viewers.
Bart Powell, Son of First HS National Director Getty Powell
Bart Powell has attended every National Finals and has no plans to break the streak. Bart has seen everything—from a score of zero at the National Finals to the longest shoot-off in Hoop Shoot history. From Kansas City to Indianapolis, all the way to Springfield, and then Chicago, Bart has been a key part of every National Finals since 1973. This year, he’s taking on the role of a live broadcaster to share his unique Hoop Shoot perspective with you.
Gabby Nunez, 2017 and 2018 National Finalist
When Gabby placed 7th at the 2017 National Finals, she didn’t let that get her down. She used the experience to motivate her to persevere, and it worked—she placed 2nd in 2018! Today, she applies that perseverance to her studies. Gabby is most excited to join the Backboard because she gets to be a role model for the Finalists and share a love for the game.
Zocko Littleton Jr., 2012, 2014, 2015, and 2017 National FinalistZocko is no stranger to the Elks Hoop Shoot National Finals—he competed four times and won a Frank Hise National Championship in 2015! Over the course of his Hoop Shoot journey, Zocko was able to see the program grow in exciting ways. Now a collegiate basketball player, it’s safe to say that Zocko has also grown since he hoisted the Hoop Shoot trophy above his head.
Please stay tuned for important updates!
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