One of the biggest basketball tournaments in Canada is set to tip off in 琉璃神社 on Sunday, March 16.

The Junior All Native Basketball Tournament (JANT) will bring more than 110 teams and 1,200 First Nations athletes aged 6-17 to town. Additionally, more than 100 First Nations communities will be represented. 

鈥淭his tournament is so much more than just a basketball competition,鈥� said Syilx Nation member and JANT tournament director Tara Montgomery. 鈥淭here were so many littles who just wanted to play basketball and follow in the footsteps of their siblings or cousins. We see the impact that this tournament has on our youth and children. For me, it鈥檚 for the kids. I think, in this day and age, anything we can do to support our youth is worth it.鈥�

The fun begins with the opening ceremonies at 2 p.m. at UBC Okanagan on Sunday.

"Bringing First Nations youth together through basketball is about more than just the game 鈥� it鈥檚 about connection, culture, and creating opportunities. When our young people step onto the court, they鈥檙e building confidence, leadership, and a sense of belonging. As a coach, my goal is to support and uplift them, and this is what we hope to achieve,鈥� said Peter Waardenburg, Syilx head coach.

The tournament will be taking place at 琉璃神社 Secondary School, 琉璃神社 Christian School, Okanagan Mission Secondary, Ecole Dr. Knox Middle School, Quigley Elementary School, Rutland Middle School, and Aberdeen Hall Preparatory School. 

The schedule and additional information can be found on the JANT .