Full Breakdown
Portsmouth Invitational Tournament Kicks Off 72nd Year
4/14/2026, 8:42:12 PM
Overview of the Event
The 72nd Portsmouth Invitational Tournament (PIT) is set to take place from April 12 to April 15, 2023, at Churchland High School in Portsmouth, Virginia. This annual event showcases 64 of the top college senior basketball players in the United States, providing them with an opportunity to impress professional scouts from the NBA and international leagues. Michael Morris, the PIT chairman, noted that over 250 NBA scouts and approximately 100 European scouts are expected to attend, alongside significant media coverage.
Tournament Schedule
The tournament will feature a total of 12 games over its four-day span, beginning with the first game on Wednesday at 6 p.m. The matchups for the opening day include:
- Game 1: Sales Systems, Inc. vs. Portsmouth Sports Club at 6:00 PM
- Game 2: Rounds Landscaping Service vs. Jani-King at 8:00 PM
Subsequent games will follow a structured elimination format, with additional matchups scheduled throughout the tournament. All games will be broadcast live on Spot Norfolk 27.
Historical Significance
The Portsmouth Invitational Tournament has a rich history, having been established to provide a platform for college seniors to showcase their talents to professional scouts. Notable past participants include NBA legends such as Tim Hardaway, Scottie Pippen, John Stockton, Dennis Rodman, and Jimmy Butler. Morris emphasized the importance of continuing the legacy of the tournament, stating, "We're just trying to carry on that legacy they created and try to improve it, make it better and just keep building on it."
Key Figures
Jeremy Jordan, the head coach of Mike Duman, Inc., expressed his excitement about returning to the tournament, reflecting on his childhood experiences attending the games with his father. He remarked on the significance of the event for both players and scouts, highlighting the unique opportunity it presents for aspiring professional athletes.
Why It Matters
The Portsmouth Invitational Tournament serves as a critical stepping stone for college seniors aiming to enter the professional basketball arena. The exposure to scouts and media can significantly influence players' prospects for a career in basketball, making this event a pivotal moment in their athletic journeys.
Official Statements & Responses
Michael Morris, the PIT chairman, stated, "We want to keep that rolling for well into the future," emphasizing the tournament's commitment to fostering talent and maintaining its historical significance in the basketball community.
Upcoming Matches
The tournament will continue with a series of elimination games, culminating in the championship match on Saturday. The structure of the tournament ensures that each game is crucial for players looking to make a lasting impression on scouts.
This year's PIT promises to be a showcase of emerging talent and a celebration of basketball history, drawing attention from across the globe to Portsmouth, Virginia.
