Virginia Invitational Still Providing Opportunities

Ron Bailey, Publisher

Nima Omidvar again brings the hoops community the Virginia Invitational.

May 5, 2010 – Nima Omidvar, the Virginia Invitational’s organizer and a former graduate assistant at Charlotte made a compelling argument as to why he’s run the tournament for three years (the VA Invitational has been in existence for seven, and orginally conceived as a way for Paul VI HS to interact with the community). “It’s become a destination for last minute signees” he responded, later saying “We just want to help out as many kids as possible. Give them a venue to stay out of trouble, play ball and get exposure”.

To that end, Omidvar is putting his money where his mouth it, forgoing a big and controversial source of income. “I’m giving away player packets to college coaches for free” he said. “Being on the college level for seven months, I understand the importance of that. Particularly for programs at all levels who might not have a big budget”.

Over a hundred teams will compete in this year’s Virginia Invitational, which is almost sold out. Its dates are May 14-16th, action will be based out of Paul VI High School (Fairfax, VA), and incorporate a number of other sites as well. Click here for more information.

That age groupings competing are 11-under through 17-under, with the following breakdowns present: 24 various 17-under teams will compete, while the 16-under group will boast 16, and 15-under down to 11-under will have between 12 and eight squads battling each.

A snapshot of 17-under crews doing battle reads Crusader Nation (MD) Pal/Delaware, Hoop Magic (VA), Team Takeover (DC), Prymetyme (MD) and Kids First Basketball (DC).

According to Omidvar the VA Invitational “is sold out”, but interested teams don’t fret, as the DC Metro Showcase beckons June 25-27 at the Discovery Sports Center in Montgomery County, MD.

Both are a great opportunity. Whether team, coach or observer, if you have a free date, take advantage of either/both.