ORLANDO, Fla. – Growing up on the basketball courts of Auburndale in Polk County, Tracy McGrady flew under the radar of scouts, until one influential figure in youth basketball noticed his talent. When the legendary Sonny Vaccaro invited McGrady to his ABCD Camp, everything changed. That opportunity catapulted McGrady into a hall of fame basketball career.
On Thursday, McGrady is giving other under-the-radar hoop talents the chance to showcase their skills with his Ones Basketball League. Relaunched this spring, the OBL features one-on-one basketball competitions with a twist. Players are part of teams representing eight different cities, including Chicago, Miami, New York, and Orlando. Vince Carter, Muggsy Bogues, and Jaylen Brown are some of the league’s high-profile team owners. The eight teams battle in knockout events for a cash prize at the end of the season.
On Friday, June 12, the OBL’s “Standing 6″ competition takes the courts at Oak Ridge High School in Orlando. Six teams will play. Only four will advance. Doors open at 6 pm.
McGrady visited News 6 to discuss the Ones Basketball League, what he calls his “brainchild,” with Sports Director Jamie Seh. He says playing one-on-one was not only a large part of his childhood, but also his pro career.