Will Partner for 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament

In constant pursuit of vested partners who share similar core values, the Center for Sport Policy and Research has partnered with First Shot Basketball as a resource for its signature event, Murfmadness.

The Center will provide resources and guidance for the 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament to be held Saturday, May 1. The tournament is hosted by First Shot basketball, founded by former Middle Tennessee State University Coach Andy Herzer.

First Shot is an organization that seeks to provide an opportunity to all levels of basketball players with a strong emphasis on fundamentals and advanced skills of basketball. First Shot is predicated on building stronger, more courageous spirit to face opportunities and obstacles that the young are confronted by in life.

"Murfmadness aligns with our core values at CSPR and can be a great opportunity for parents to model good sportsmanship behaviors while competing in a fun and positive way," said Dr. Jubenville, director of CSPR. "Our kids need to see us modeling positive sportsmanship behavior and they will at this event. Andy does a great job making sure he puts 'first things first' with each of his programs and I expect this event will further illustrate his commitment to growing sport and people in a way that adds value."

CSPR has already helped build a social media for the event, headed by Sport Management graduate student Terry Porter.  

"I know this is one of those defining moments that provides a stepping stone into future endeavors," said Porter. "Both CSPR and First Shot basketball share many of the same philosophies and I'm just excited to jump in and learn how an event like this is built from the ground up. In five years, I truly believe Murfmadness will be a big time event in Murfreesboro. We are looking to attract teams from all over the southeast to come here, compete, and find out who's the best."  

The one day event will offer cash prize for the men's elite and collegiate group. Men's elite pays out $500 for first place and $250 for second place, while men's collegiate pays our $400 for first and $200 for second. Medallions will be awarded for all other age groups.

The cost is $80 per team and age groups consist of 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, 11-13, 14-17, and 18 and up men's and women's. In its first tournament last summer, Murfmadness generated 50 teams and upwards of 300 teams are expected to participate this year.

"Building a first class festival that not only has long lasting economic impact on our community, but could change the lives of at-risk children in Rutherford County is our mission," said Coach Herzer. "I have no words to express the gratification to all those who believe and serve in building Murfmadness. Dr. Jubenville is one of those people and has helped us continue to grow. We are happy to partner with him and the Center and look forward to working with them in the future."