Willard Parks Welcomes Teams from Across the Country for National Homeschool Basketball Tournament
The Willard Rec Center was buzzing with energy as we welcomed teams from across the country for the 2025 National Homeschool Basketball Tournament. From March 9–14, more than 400 teams competed at various locations across Southwest Missouri, and we were proud to be one of the host sites.
At Willard, we had the privilege of hosting teams from across the country; Tennessee, Texas, and even Hawaii. One of the biggest moments of the week happened right here—the U12 Girls Championship game—where the Dallas Thunder came out on top. More than 30 teams and their families came through our doors, filling the gym with excitement and competition.
But it wasn’t just the games that left an impression. Players, coaches, and parents had great things to say about our space—how well the courts were kept, how clean and welcoming the facility felt. A quality playing environment matters, and we take a lot of pride in making sure athletes have a great place to compete.
They also noticed something else—the people. Our staff was there every step of the way, making sure games ran smoothly, answering questions, and creating a positive experience for everyone who walked through the doors. The tournament organizer specifically mentioned how helpful and professional our team was, and how that kind of support makes a difference when choosing where to bring future events.
For us, events like this are about more than basketball. They bring people together, showcase what our community has to offer, and reinforce why maintaining high-quality facilities—and having a dedicated staff—matters. We’re grateful to have been part of this tournament and look forward to welcoming even more teams in the years ahead!