Twenty-six teams competed at north and south regional tournaments for the opportunity to play a final game at the United Center before a Chicago Bulls home game in mid-March. Fifth- and sixth-grade teams representing Bartlett Park District and Blue Island Recreation Department began the afternoon battling back and forth to an eventual Blue Island victory. Seventh and eighth graders from Waukegan Park District and Calumet Park Recreation Department challenged each other until Calumet Park prevailed. The older teams also got the chance to present a short exhibition match during halftime before an audience of 23,000 fans. What a great opportunity to promote local park and recreation agencies! Thank you, Chicago Bulls!

McDonald's NBA 2Ball
The pilot year of the McDonald's NBA 2Ball youth basketball skills program culminated with a state competition during halftime at a Chicago Bulls home game in early April. Twelve teams—boys and girls—competed to determine the state champions and earn a $500 donation from McDonald's for each winning team's home park district or recreation department. It was quite a thrill for all the youngsters to show off their basketball skills on the same court as the Chicago Bulls and highlight the advantages of being involved with their local park, recreation and conservation agency! 

Illinois Parks & Recreation * May/June 1996 * 47