In 1984, when Michael Jordan (for many experts the best basketball player ever) was drafted, a small but highly motivated team of basketball nerds came up with the idea to organize a tournament. The format - pretty straight forward, 24 teams in 4 divisions. Everything was done on an honorary basis, just for the purpose of establishing and developing basketball in Southern Berlin.
As everyone knows, Michael Jordan – after his uniquely successful career – is now basketball history. But the “International Zehlendorf Pentecoast Tournament” is still alive and present.
In 2024, it will take place for the 38th time. And still, everything on an honorary basis. Over the years, team applications are regularly exceeding our capacities. For 2024, we are expecting around 200 teams from Germany and other European countries in 13 divisions. For every tournament, the distribution of the “Winners' Shirts” during the final games in the pretty crowded JFK gym is one of the highlights.
For communication and exchange between teams and clubs, the “Coaches Pub” will be open nearly all day. Music and good mood inclusive!
Some souvenir, to take home for remembrance? No problem, we will be offering a specific tournament shirt for only little money. As a unique feature, the shirt can be individualized at rear with creative names like “Splash Sis”, “Ilayuwan”, “Juli Curry”, etc. Exclusively at Pentecoast Tournament. Made in Zehlendorf.
You feel motivated to experience the tournament live? Registration is quite easy via our homepage, just fill in the online mask. In case you need accommodation, options are classrooms, gyms, or you organize private accommodation yourself. Furthermore, catering will be available, or teams might care for food and drinks self-organized. Most playing gyms can be reached by foot, for some longer distances our favourite shuttle service can be used.
Preparations for the 2024 tournament have started. It will take place on May 18-20, 2024. Registration deadline is April 21, 2024!