The event is under the direction of West Texas Centers for MHMR and is free to the public.

Six teams representing 23 counties take part in basketball, dance contests and  cheerleading competitions. Participating will be the Big Spring Heat, Sweetwater Red Rattlers, Ballinger Longhorns, Snyder Wildkatz, Seminole and Brownfield Pink Panthers, and the Monahans and Pecos Warriors.

Tip-off is set for 9 a.m.  with activities continuing throughout the afternoon. Mayor Russ McEwen will open the day's activities by reading a proclamation declaring March as Mental Retardation Month in Howard County.

State Rep. Joe Heflin will welcome more than 700 fans, athletes, coaches and cheerleaders.

The Howard College cheerleaders and the Howard College Hawks and the Big Spring Steers drum line will provide entertainment and encouragement.

As always, West Texas Centers for MHMR CEO Shelley Smith, LMSW, is encouraging the public to support the athletes and share in the fun.

“This is by far my most favorite event of the year,” Smith said. “There is no way you can leave this event without a smile on your face. Everyone who attends is uplifted by the day of basketball, music, food and dances.

“We really want to encourage the people of Howard County to come out and support the players from their community,” Smith said of the black and orange clad Heat. “We present an annual spirit award and the more active fans wearing the team colors help the athletes and help them to perform.”

All of the athletes are presented awards following the competition, which is spirited but friendly. Other activities include free throw shooting contests, dribbling and passing exhibitions.

The tournament is sponsored by West Texas Centers for MHMR, Howard County Arc, Howard College, Professional Pharmacy, KBST Radio and with many other businesses, organizations and people from the counties served by West Texas Centers.