State Basketball Tournament

There’s something special about fall in Butte, and this year, it comes with the return of a much-loved sporting event. The Special Olympics Montana State Basketball Tournament is heading back to the Mining City for another three-year run. We hope you are as excited as we are!

Mark your calendars for November 2026, 2027, and 2028, when more than 1,200 athletes, along with coaches, volunteers, and fans, will make their way to the “Richest Hill on Earth” for a three-day celebration of competition and community.

The tournament tips off with an Opening Ceremony at the Butte Civic Center on the evening of November 12th, setting the stage for two full days of intense competition. Athletes will compete in 5v5 and 3v3 basketball, both Traditional and Unified*, along with skills competitions.

Games will take place in gyms across Butte, turning the whole town into one big hub of energy and support. And the best part? The public is always invited to attend. Whether you come for the Opening Ceremony, a single game, or the whole weekend, you’ll be part of something truly uplifting.

It takes a village to make an event like this happen, and over 1,000 volunteers will be needed to bring it all together. If you’ve ever thought about getting involved, this is a wonderful opportunity to lend a hand and be part of an incredible experience. Volunteer opportunities cover a wide range of needs and can be as short as three hours or as long as three days.

So circle those November dates, spread the word, and stay tuned for volunteer sign-ups. Butte is ready, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back.

*Unified competition is where individuals without intellectual disabilities train and compete alongside individuals with intellectual disabilities.