BIG SPRING – West Texas Centers Hoops Dreams and Goals kicks off its 21st year Friday, March 28, 2025 in Howard College’s Dorothy Garrett Coliseum.
The Hoops Dreams and Goals event hosted by West Texas Centers is shaping up to be a fantastic day of community celebration! The 21st annual event will not only feature basketball competitions but also encourage positive sportsmanship and fellowship. With over 1,000 people expected to attend, the energy at the Dorothy Garrett Coliseum will be electric.
Consumers from 43 counties served by West Texas Centers, PermiaCare, MHMR Concho Valley and Betty Hardwick Community Centers, participate in the basketball tournament and compete for various prizes, all while being cheered on by staff, families, parents, and cheerleading and half-time dance teams.
The athletes grand entrance will begin at 8:30 a.m. with a parade down the ramp of the Dorothy Garrett Coliseum, led by the Forsan and Big Spring drumlines.
Opening ceremonies start at 8:50 a.m. with introductions by West Texas Centers CEO Rodney Jones and a welcome from Big Spring Mayor Robert Moore. Robert Hilger will perform the National Anthem.
Teams will be introduced at 9 a.m. The trophy presentation and closing ceremonies are scheduled for 3:30 p.m.
“The event will be a great opportunity for local communities from across West Texas to come together and support the athletes from various counties, all while enjoying a day filled with performances, games, and excitement,” Jones said. “The energy is contagious, and the smiles are endless.”
Jones said the community is invited to the event. “If you want to smile and have a good day, please come and support these athletes.”
Admission is free to Dorothy Garrett Coliseum, 1901 Birdwell Lane, Big Spring.
Teams have practiced for months as have the cheer and dance teams, Jones said.
“They take the competitions for the team trophies and the Spirit Stick very seriously,” Jones said. “It’s especially heartwarming to know that everyone leaves with a medal, showcasing the importance of participation over competition.”
The Spirit Stick, awarded to the team that shows the most enthusiasm and good sportsmanship, is a fun way to highlight the spirit of the event.
Teams participating in bracket play will be the Abilene Chili Peppers, Ballinger Longhorns, Big Spring Heat, Midland Panthers, Monahans Pecos Warriors, Odessa Tigers, San Angelo Bobcats, Seminole Pink Panthers, Snyder Wildcats, and the Sweetwater Red Rattlers.
Team members will be accompanied by coaches, cheerleaders, pep squads, and friends and family, totaling more than 1,000 people.
West Texas Centers is the local intellectual and developmental disability authority (LIDDA) and local mental health authority (LMHA) serving people with behavioral health and intellectual and developmental disabilities in 23 rural West Texas counties.
The event is sponsored by The Howard County ARC, Atmos Energy, Betty Hardwick Center, Big Spring Radio, Delek US, Gallagher Benefits Services, Inc., Hexad Oil Co., Howard College, KBEST Media, MHMR Concho Valley, Permiacare, Prescription Services, SMMC, SM Energy, Texas Graphics Co., and West Texas Centers.
(courtesy photo)
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