UPDATE: The registration has now hit 20 teams from across Alberta, including some European players from Edmonton and SAIT students.

The brand new Cochrane Basketball League is kicking off with an explosive three-on-three tournament on Apr. 17 that has so far attracted 16 teams of elite players from across the region.

Organizer Bryan Verdillo says it features both a U20 and open division with cash prizes and trophies for the winners.

"This is the first-ever three-on-three challenge here in Cochrane," says Verdillo. "I've invited all the elite players from our surrounding areas, like Banff, Canmore, Airdrie, High River, and especially Calgary."

The rising stars of the sports will be featured in the U20 division, including those from Cochrane high schools, like Pao Cuesta, of the Bow Valley Bobcats, and Sam Smilski, of the Cochrane High Cobras.

His long-term goal is to give exposure to local athletes that have a passion for the sport.

"The Cochrane Basketball League is going to be the platform and bridge for them to exposure their skill and talents."

"After this, we have a lot of projects, like five-on-five and training camps. This is only an introduction that is going to make use legit."

The play starts on Apr. 17 at noon at the SLS Family Sports Centre. It incorporates a double-knockout format with five players per team.

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