This year’s Slam Dunk to the Beach high school hoop tournament in Lewes will have a little less local flavor.
Organizers announced this week that four local schools will be in the field for this year’s event – down from six a year ago.
Newly crowned state champ Sanford and tournament host Cape Henlopen will be joined by Mount Pleasant and Smyrna High Schools. They will compete against each other and some of national teams invited. The list of national teams participating will be announced over the summer.
The 2016 Slam Dunk to the Beach is scheduled for December 27-29 at Cape Henlopen High School.
This year’s Slam Dunk will be the third since state officials revived it following an 11-year hiatus. It previously featured star NBA players like LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Carmelo Anthony.
Organizers say last year’s tourney drew over 12,000 people, up from 10,000 in 2014, its first year back.