Get ready for 3-on-3 basketball

SANDUSKY — The NBA Finals just wrapped up, but another prestigious basketball event for local youth is about to tip off. Two local basketball trainers, Trey Ruhlman and Nick Ruthsatz, are bringing back their annual 3-on-3 Summer Hoops Bash, scheduled for 6-9 p.m. Thursday, July 24. Because of the event's surging popularity, this year's event will relocate from Bellevue High School to Cedar Point Sports Center in Sandusky. Ruhlman, a 2019 Bellevue High School graduate who owns and operates G.O.A.T-Training, previewed what attendees can expect: • The mission: "Basketball is at its best when everyone gets to play, and that's exactly the mission behind the annual 3-on-3 Summer Hoops Bash. What started as a fun, competitive alternative to traditional 5-on-5 tournaments has quickly become one of the region's most exciting summer events." • The purpose: "Designed to give every player more touches, more shots and more chances to develop, this tournament emphasizes fun, skill-building and fast-paced action. In 3-on-3 basketball, every player is part of the play. There's no hiding in the corner or waiting for a pass that never comes. It's a game where all participants are constantly involved, and that's the magic that keeps players coming back." • The importance: "When I started studying the game and diving into the skill development side of things, I realized how important it is for players to be actively involved in real game actions, things like ball screens and off-ball movement. A lot of youth players struggle defensively, and, in 3-on-3, that gets exposed because there's not much help behind you. You have to sit down and guard the player in front of you. That's why I love 3-on-3: It forces players to grow." • The collaboration: "I partnered with Nick Ruthsatz, owner of Heart Over Hoops, to bring the vision to life. The tournament began at Bellevue High School where it quickly gained traction among youth athletes across the region. In 2024, the event drew over 40 teams and packed the gym with spectators so much so that seating became limited." • The look ahead: "Now, in 2025, the tournament is leveling up. For the first time, it will be held at the Cedar Point Sports Center in Sandusky, Ohio, a state-of-the-art facility that will provide ample space for both players and fans. The move reflects the rapid growth of the event and the continued commitment to creating a competitive, high-energy environment for young athletes." • The participation: This year's 3-on-3 Summer Hoops Bash will allow children, boys and girls, entering grades 5-12 to play in separate divisions. Athletes can register by visiting goat-training.org, clicking on "camps & events" and then clicking "3 on 3 Summer Bash."