‘World’s most unique basketball tournament’ hits Edmonton

For those who feel like it’s them against the world sometimes, there’s a basketball tournament for that.

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Parkallen Community League hosted Full Court 21 Canada’s one-on-five basketball tournament on Saturday.

Not one-on-one or even three-on-three. It is, according to director of operations Will Strickland, the world’s only application of one-on-five basketball.

“It’s you against the world. No teammates. Bring your game. Get busy,” said Strickland.

It’s a tournament that travels around four continents and 30 cities, wherein players of all skill levels, gender and age from 14 and up can compete.

The play is busy, if not chaotic: each player competes individually, and the first to reach 21 points wins the game.

Canada has taken the trophy home for the last five years, and Strickland is looking for a sixth win with a new champion from Edmonton.

“I love Parkallen. They’ve embraced us. We’re not here to do a one-off,” said Strickland.

Winners like Nolan Gooding go on to represent their city in New York for the finals.

Gooding has been a one-on-five basketball champion in 2017, 2019 and 2025.

“It’s everything you can ask for and want, in terms of basketball, the atmosphere, the fans, the crowd,” Gooding said.

“If you’re a one-on-one type of guy, this is perfect for you. It showcases your skills, your stamina, your IQ, just everything as a basketball player.”

Gooding will try to make his way back to New York to become the Canadian champion once again.

This year’s tournament theme is a tribute to the victims of the Lapu Lapu festival vehicle-ramming attack in Vancouver, B.C., earlier this year.

“We’re selling some shirts, all the proceeds will go to the Filipino [community] in B.C., so always more than just basketball for sure,” said Strickland.