One of the biggest basketball tournaments in Western Canada is officially back as the Luther Invitational Tournament (LIT) in Regina is almost underway.
And two years after the tournament was canceled or changed, the excitement is building up from the first day of school.
‘Even superstars forget their equipment’ – Yorkton, Sask. Kid Lends Connor Bedd’s Socks
‘Agony’ as Montreal-area daycare bus crash kills 2 children, driver faces charges
“Everyone from the students to the staff and the office is very excited about this,” said Luther Senior boys’ head coach and LIT director Jeremy Sundeen.
Both the men’s and women’s teams from Western Canada compete for titles in the senior basketball tournament.
This year marks the 69th annual LIT, which is set three years after the 68th annual LIT.
“I can’t wait,” said Grade 12 point guard Isaac Setner of the Luther Lions with a smile on his face during practice. “It’s the most publicized I’ve ever been and I’m counting the days.”
And as tipoff approaches, Sundin said Settner isn’t the only one excited for the weekend.
“Our grade 12 was in grade 9 when we last hosted LIT, so I noticed a huge difference with them,” Sundran said this week, describing the intensity of the practices.
“I’m not sure all grade 11s know what’s coming and they fully understand the magnitude of this event and what it means for the Luther community and the basketball program.”
And even for Sundin, there are some nerves for Opening Night because he’s never had the chance to coach in the LIT during his decades-long basketball career.
“I’ve been to LIT but I’ve never been to LIT,” Sundin said. “And so for me as well, I don’t fully understand what’s coming.”
The tournament promotes a new theme every year where students and fans get into action. Themes such as the 80s, famous movies, technology, mythology and more have been carried over the years.
This year, Semple Gymnasium will be straight out of the ’90s.
Students will spend a significant amount of time during and after school getting ready to host the tournament, especially when it comes to artwork. The tournament is known for its signature pieces designed by students that line the walls of both Luther Gym and the hallways.
“This event is for the whole school. It’s not just the basketball players,” Sundin said. “It’s amazing to see the community come together.”
And while the Luther senior boys are currently ranked 10th in Regina league play, this won’t be the first time the home team has been an underdog in its own tournament and come out on top – the Lions’ hopes are on the horizon.
“You never know what’s going to happen until you step on the floor,” Sundin said.
LIT Tips Off on Thursday, February 9th at Luther High School.
© 2023 Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc.