It’s not quite the same, but Ely’s high school basketball teams have the opportunity to both stay home and get some action over the holiday break.
The high school gymnasium will be a busy spot early in the week, with four teams in town for a holiday boys basketball tournament, and the girls getting a chance to play four total games between the varsity and junior varsity levels.
Two Harbors, Cook County and first-time entrant Mt. Iron-Buhl join the host Timberwolves for the Ely Boys Holiday Classic, set for Monday, Dec. 29 and Tuesday, Dec. 30.
On the girls side, the Timberwolves host Two Harbors in both varsity and JV action Monday, with Fond du Lac in town for single contests both Tuesday as well as a noon matinee on Dec. 31.
The boys tournament is shaping up to be a competitive affair, with all four teams boasting winning records.
Cook County (3-2) and MIB (4-1) open things up at 3:30 p.m. on Monday, with Ely (3-2) to tangle with unbeaten Two Harbors (7-0) in the 7 p.m. finale.
Tuesday’s lineup has Two Harbors against MIB at 3:30 p.m., with Ely and Cook County squaring off at 7 p.m.
The girls get things underway at 3:30 p.m. Monday in Ely’s secondary gym, with a JV game between Ely and Two Harbors.
The varsity contest between Ely and Two Harbors is set for 5:15 p.m., Monday, in the Memorial Gymnasium.
On Tuesday, Ely hosts the Fond du Lac girls at 5:15 p.m., with Fond du Lac and Ely to do battle in a JV game at noon Wednesday.
For the Ely girls, this marks a return after a long layoff.
Because of weather-related postponements, Ely (1-4) has not played since a Dec. 11 loss to Floodwood.
In addition to the games, the Ely Hoop Club will offer a full concession menu throughout the tournament, with proceeds supporting Ely basketball.
Because of the tournament format, season passes for Ely events will not be honored and daily admission prices are $7 for adults and $5 for students and senior citizens.
