The McDonald’s Texas Invitational basketball tournament was a slam dunk success again as $125,000 was donated to the Pasadena ISD Education Foundation.

“This tournament has really taken on a life of its own,” said Tournament Chairman Ben Meador. “We now have more than 400 volunteers and countless sponsors who believe in our event. The talent, both from a team and an individual standpoint, is in place. I can’t be any happier with the progress. And all of the proceeds go to a great cause.”

More than 40,000 fans attended the three-day event. The 48 team boys bracket featured several of the state's top ranked teams. The girls division featured 32 teams again this year. The event was highlighted by a televised championship game that saw the top team in the nation fall in overtime.

In the six years that the tournament has been in existence, the tournament has donated more than $385,000 to the Education Foundation – providing grants for teachers, which helps to enhance classroom instruction. 

“These funds go directly toward the classroom and helping our teachers provide innovative and creative instruction that reaches the hearts and minds of kids,” Pasadena ISD Superintendent Kirk Lewis said. “The proceeds given to the foundation by this tournament are far reaching into classroom projects, student activities and even after-school programs. These funds provide opportunities for students to learn in unique and innovative ways that would otherwise not be afforded through regular school budget.” 

For information on the tournament, log on to www.texasinvitational.com.