BY JOE ARCE
From the moment the basketball players arrived at the Hy-Vee Arena to the moment they got onto the basketball court, it was all smiles and many of the players couldn’t believe they were playing in such a beautiful arena.
“This is my first time here and the floors were good and it was a crazy environment to play on all the great courts,” said Chicago basketball player Kevin Maria, team La Familia.
Ivan Arellano told Hispanic News, “Playing here at Hy-Vee Arena is a big stage coming in, and all the people watching and all the basketball courts it’s a good environment. It/s like an environment that you see on TV college and professional basketball players on these type of courts.”
Guadalupe Centers (GCI) officials were excited to host the 73rd Annual Tony Aguirre Latino Basketball Tournament in its new location at Hy-Vee Arena. And returning to its winter premier in February, bringing together 16 elite teams from across the Midwest for a weekend of competitive play and cultural celebration, all while supporting their youth program.
Founded in honor of Tony Aguirre, a legendary local GCI coach in the Westside, who advocated for Latino youth, this long-standing tournament was created as a space for Latino men to compete, connect, and build community. That legacy lives on as participation remains exclusive to Latino males, preserving the event’s origins and cultural significance.
Chicago player Aaron Olivas said, "This arena really surprised me. We are use to playing in a smaller gym, but playing here at Hy-Vee Arena and this size of an arena brings out the best in all the players. We certainly appreciate this arena. I was telling my co-players, I think I was seeing this arena in one of my dreams, I had no clue that this arena was going to be this nice.”
Marcus Calvos said, “This is a blessing to be here playing basketball. And win or loss, it’s been a blessing.
Over two days, teams battle for the championship in a high-energy bracket-style format. The event also serves as a key fundraiser for the Youth Recreation Programs, which offer year-round recreational programs and gear. The tournament also honored veteran players from prior competitions in an honorary ceremony on Sunday, February 22nd.
GCI, Chief Community Impact Officer Leo Prieto told Hispanic News, “This tournament elevates our game and it gives us respect. The respect that the late Tony Aguirre deserves. Having the tournament here at Hy-Vee arena elevates the game and the players, plus incorporate the little ones playing the game as well. We have many courts here, so we can do the men’s and the small kids.”
“It’s special because it’s been around for 73 years. It started with Tony “Fish” Aguirre, and we’re proud to continue that legacy. It’s a celebration of heritage,” said Marcos Murguia, Tournament Organizer.
