Rockets and ZTE Team Up for 12th Annual Blacktop Battle 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament

On the weekend of March 19-20, the Houston Rockets will host the 12th annual Blacktop Battle, presented by ZTE, the fourth-largest smartphone supplier in the U.S. and second-largest in the no-contract market. Blacktop Battle is the largest 3-on-3 basketball tournament in Texas and takes place on the streets surrounding Toyota Center.

“Over the past three years serving as the title sponsor of the Blacktop Battle it is a great reminder of one of the key reasons we’ve partnered with the Houston Rockets, and that is to support the greater Houston community through events like this,” said Lixin Cheng, chairman and CEO of ZTE USA. “Having watched several of these tournaments and even participating as a judge for the slam dunk contest, it is great to see the Houston community come together and have a little fun. I look forward to interacting with fans and enjoying several games of basketball again this year."

The competition is open to players eight and older, with different divisions based upon age and skill experience. Team registration is open now through March 17 at Rockets.com. Interested participants can also sign up for individual competitions, such as a Slam Dunk Contest, 3-point Shootout and a Skills Challenge on site at the event on March 19.

The top team in each age and skills group, as well as the top finisher in each individual competition, will receive an award. All 3-on-3 participants will receive a commemorative Blacktop Battle t-shirt, a Blacktop Battle packet from sponsors and one (1) ticket to an upcoming Rockets game from a select list. Additional tickets may be purchased by 3-on-3 participants at a reduced rate and are subject to availability.