‘Best Basketball in the Tri-State Area!’ Owensboro’s Dust Bowl Celebrates 50 Years!

The 50th Annual Dust Bowl Basketball Tournament returns to Kendall Perkins Park July 21st-29th, and it is JAM-PACKED with fun and games for everyone!  Founded by Mr. Larry Davenport, the mission of the Dust Bowl is to bring together folks from all walks of life to celebrate community and sportsmanship. If you have ever been, you know why this event has lasted so long and continues to be a huge success. If you haven't, what are you waiting for?

The basketball games are 3-on-3 or 5-on-5 in the following categories:

• Men’s Open
• Women’s Open
• Boys High School (9th – 12th Grades)
• Girls High School (9th – 12th Grades)
• Boys JV (9th & 10th Grades)
• Girls JV (9th & 10th Grades)
• Boys 7th & 8th Grade
• Girls 7th & 8th Grade
• Boys 5th & 6th Grade
• Girls 5th & 6th Grade
• Boys 3rd & 4th Grade and Under
• Girls 3rd & 4th Grade and Under

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This event is not only about the basketball though! Sunday July 23rd is Praise in the Park with a gospel celebration concert.  Starting at 7:00PM, come on down with your lawn chair, handheld fan and some friends to enjoy the live music! If the weather doesn't cooperate, the show will be moved to the H. L. Neblett Community Center

Later in the week, The Dust Bowl Kids Day is a family favorite on Wednesday July 26th from 6-8PM.  Be sure to come early so you can grab some free grub! Hot dogs, hamburgers and soft drinks while supplies last!  There will be activities for all ages plus inflatables, meet and greets with Owensboro Police, Fire Department, and Sheriff's Department, the gaming trailer and a magician!

Throughout the week, you can cheer on your friends and kiddos in the tournament and be sure to check out the variety of vendor booths including arts & crafts makers, churches, community and health service organizations, as well as concessions!

If you would like to be involved as a vendor, player, sponsor, or volunteer, hop on over to the website at https://owensborodustbowl.org/ for registration forms! You can also contact Dust Bowl organizer Byron W. Owen at (270) 302-6310.  Also be on the lookout for 50th Anniversary merch, details about specific vendors, and game schedule information closer to date. See you at The Dust Bowl!