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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NGBA?
  • The National Gay Basketball Association’s (“NGBA”) is a nonprofit organization providing the LGBTQ+ community and its allies with a well-organized, supportive and inclusive sporting environment. The NGBA hosts 3-4 tournaments annually across the country. Visit ngba.org for the latest tournament updates.
What is a typical NGBA tournament schedule?
  • A typical tournament schedule consists of 3 pool play games on Saturday. On Sunday a single elimination bracket is made for each subdivision, and teams compete until the champion is crowned. 
  • Visit each tournament page for the tentative game schedule. Team schedules are released approximately one week in advance.
How are divisions and seeding determined?
  • The NGBA hosts the All-Gender Division [size 7 ball] and the Women’s+ Division [size 6 ball]. Players are encouraged to register in whatever division they would like to compete. Review the division and seeding guidelines for more detail.
  • Divisions are organized by basketball knowledge and athletic skill. Divisions may merge or play crossover games based on total team registration.
What guidelines must tournament participants follow?
  • While competition is an important part of the NGBA experience, the NGBA’s first priority is the safety and wellbeing of our athletes and our community. The NGBA Code of Conduct outlines the basic expectations of behavior as a participant in NGBA activities, on and off the court, to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. The standards of conduct listed as well as the general spirit that is implied shall be followed and respected by all participants.
What are the duties of a Team Captain?
  • Register your team name and division 
  • Serve as the main point of contact for tournament communications, communicating tournament preparation and weekend updates to teammates
  • Attend one pre-tournament virtual captains meeting
  • Encourage sportsmanlike behavior, lead referee communication during games
I don’t have a team, can I still compete in NGBA tournaments?
When does registration open and what are the registration fees to participate?
  • Registration opens 60-90 days prior to each tournament 
  • Registration fee: $125
  • Late Registration: $140
  • Last Minute: $175
  • Day of Event: $200
  • Visit the tournament page to register
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What membership is needed to participate?
  • All tournament participants are required to maintain active membership. 
  • $25 annual membership supports sustainability of the organization. This year’s membership receives access to special deals and offers.
What procedures are in place for injuries or emergencies?
  • All tournaments follow an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). On site staff, trainers, and tournament organizers follow the EAP. 
  • Trainers are onsite to provide first aid for players.
  • In the rare event that a trainer isn’t present tournament organizers follow the Emergency Action Plan.
Where do I find gym locations?
  • Visit the tournament page for a map of the gym location, tentative tournament schedule, host hotel booking link, social events, airline partner discounts, and more!
Is there a designated host hotel for tournaments?
  • The NGBA provides at least 1 host hotel. Players are encouraged to use the host accommodations, but are not required to stay at the host hotel to participate in the tournaments. Links to host hotel group blocks can be found on each tournament page.
  • Additionally, Delta Airlines, United Airlines & Southwest Airlines provide discounted airfare for each tournament, find links to book discounted airfare on each tournament page.
Can Spectators and Fans participate?
  • Spectators and fans are welcome and encouraged to attend the tournament games.
  • Spectator $10 daily admission supports the organization of each tournament.
  • VIP Spectators passes can be purchased in advance of the tournament and include spectator entry Saturday/Sunday, tournament t-shirt, NGBA player benefits at social events and more. Information to purchase VIP Spectator passes will be provided on the player registration page for each tournament.
What is a typical NGBA social schedule?
  • Build community and celebrate together at nightly social events hosted at different bar partners throughout the community
  • Thursday Early Arrivals Welcome event
  • Friday Credential Pickup 
    • Required event 
    • Pick up your player credential and meet the competition while we kick off the weekend together 
  • Saturday social event
  • Sunday Closing Celebration 
  • Stay tuned to instagram and the tournament page for social schedule announcements
What is the Hall of Fame?
  • As a way of celebrating our rich history the NGBA Hall of Fame recognizes the achievements of our members contributions to the Queer basketball community.
  • Each year the NGBA solicits nominations from our members and inducts a new hall of fame class at the national championships in the fall. Visit the Hall of Fame page to learn more about the nomination schedule and view our current Hall of Famers.
Does the NGBA host basketball leagues?
  • The NGBA does not operate any city or local leagues. Instead, we partner with established city leagues whose teams participate in our national tournaments.
  • Looking to join a local Queer basketball league? Click here to find a league near you.
Where do I find the latest about the NGBA?
National Gay Basketball Association
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The National Gay Basketball Association (NGBA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is an all-inclusive organization dedicated to providing the LGBTQ+ community with a well-organized, supportive and welcoming sporting environment.

 

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