The “Battle @ the Lake” idea came from a long line of outdoor tournaments that have been going on across the US for years. I was once a true basketball junky, who grew up playing basketball at Green Lake for many years. As I grew up watching the players come through the doors of the “Old Gym” at Green Lake, I worked on my skills, to improve my game. We had the luxury of playing outdoors, when the summer weather permitted us to engage, as well as going indoors, as Mother nature decided to shower us with her gifts.

I have observed great players bring their skills to this historical facility, and showcase their talents on a hot sunny day, as well as a rainy Seattle day. As I reminisce on all of the talent I have viewed, I must admit, the state of Washington is a very good place to find talent for such a sport.

In the late 90’s, I was playing in a tournament in California. LA is the place. It was called “Hoops by the Beach”. We were playing at the famous Venice Beach hoop courts. I was in awe of the spectators, who had come out to watch such an event. I liked how they had the court set up, and things were in order for a very entertaining weekend. It didn’t hit me then, but there was something about this tournament that was special.

Years later I had obtained a job working at the same Green Lake center I had once honed my basketball skills. The courts, both inside, and out were still the same. I got the opportunity to continue to run the adult leagues that were still in existence. I had ideas of how to improve them, but nothing was forming in the capacity of entertainment.

Early 2000! Our beloved Seattle SuperSonics decided to donate construction to rebuild the outside court. Yes! I found a chance to make something out of all the thought running through my brain. In the past, there was an outdoor league. The King of the Lake. It took place in ’98. Mike Lawson, and Kevin LuBahn put on a great outdoor league. I followed it with the Ladies of the Lake. But after the court was reconstructed, I wanted to something big.

The “Battle @ the Lake” started in 2004. We had 8 teams come play on a July weekend. I wasn’t sure how it would turn out, all I knew is that if I got it to work, there was something good that would come of it.

Since then! We have been going strong for the last 7 years. I can’t explain the excitement I feel from seeing this event form into an annual spectacle. We have had players such as Shawn Kemp, Jamal Crawford, Nate Robinson, Brian Scalabrine, Will Conroy. We added a dunk contest, a three point shooting contest, a kids game, a womens game, and even a fashion show. All this would not be possible without the help of the people, who believe in making dream come true. The Marvin Thomas Memorial foundation…….

Jasen Thomas & Marvena Kemp