It is officially year three for La Familia in The Basketball Tournament, as the University of Kentucky alumni team will once again compete this summer in the growing winner-take-all event.
This year, however, TBT is introducing major changes with what it is calling “TBT 2.0.” The revamped format will feature 16 total teams, including an eight-team alumni bracket played on home courts and an eight-team non-alumni bracket taking place in Las Vegas. The tournament will begin with a best-of-three opening
round before transitioning into single-elimination play for the remainder of the event.
One of the biggest storylines will be the rivalry matchup between La Familia and The Ville, Louisville’s alumni team. The first game of the series will take place July 18 in Lexington at Historic Memorial Coliseum, while the second matchup will be played July 20 in Louisville. A deciding third game, if necessary, will be hosted by whichever fan base purchases the most tickets once sales officially begin.
Kentucky fans will only have 24 hours upon the announcement to reserve their spots at Historic Memorial Coliseum, creating even more excitement surrounding the rivalry series.
La Familia general manager Twany Beckham expressed his excitement to A Sea of Blue about returning for another run.
“Man, I’m excited for year three of the tournament with La Familia,” Beckham said. “I’m excited to get the guys back here in Lexington and looking forward to compete at the highest level to win this tournament. Playing Louisville out of the gate will be pretty special.”
