Wilson Sporting Goods Co. and Dreamville announced this week the return of the storied Chicago pro-am league now known as the Dreamville Chi-League, powered by Wilson.
As part of Wilson’s commitment to the basketball community, the official game ball supplier of the NBA and WNBA is once again partnering with Dreamvilleto host a four-week tournament in Wilson’s hometown of Chicago.
“Last year’s Chi-League was a tremendous success, showcasing local basketball talent and bringing the city of Chicago together through sport,” said Kevin Murphy, General Manager, Wilson Team Sports. “We’re always happy to give back and produce events in the city Wilson has called home since 1914. Continuing our partnership with Dreamville, we know this year’s extended schedule featuring both men and women will truly be something special.”
The 2022 Dreamville Chi-League powered by Wilson will be held every Saturday in August at a new location – University of Illinois Chicago – featuring eight teams in both the men’s and women’s divisions. The league is expected to once again feature overseas standouts, former collegiate stars, local legends and current NBA players, such as Darius Garland, Kendrick Nunn, Keifer Sykes and more. New this year, the league will offer a play-in opportunity on Aug. 6 for teams to qualify for the three-week, single-elimination tournament being held Aug. 13, 20 and 27.
“We are excited to be back this summer. The Chi-League helps to further unite our brand with the beloved city of Chicago by intersecting entertainment, sports and community,” said Candace Rodney, Dreamville EVP. “Following the success of last year’s inaugural pro-am, especially the nail-biting end to the men’s championship game, Dreamville and Wilson are coming bigger and better to produce another amazing tournament year.”
To celebrate Chicago communities, Wilson will drop limited-edition Dreamville products throughout the month of August, delivering on their long-standing basketball tradition and the music industry’s integral role in sport culture. Additionally, Wilson and Dreamville will again partner to provide community engagement opportunities, including youth basketball clinics, as part of its national partnership with YMCA of the USA. Wilson will build out local programming for the South Side YMCA, Rauner Family YMCA and Kelly Hall YMCA, which are part of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, during Chi-League.
“Last season was the best pro-am I’ve been a part of, and I couldn’t be more excited to see what’s in store for this season,” said Antoine Walker, Chi-League Coach and three-time NBA All-Star. “The history of this league is something to be celebrated and I’m proud to see its continued success.”
Details on surrounding events, rosters and game times will be announced in the coming weeks. Follow @WilsonBasketball and @Dreamville on social media, and visit DreamvilleChileague.com for more information.
