SPOKANE, Wash. – Local businesses at the Northtown Mall are taking a creative approach to combat the decline in in-store shopping. This Saturday, they will host the popular basketball game Horse as part of Shootfest, drawing in crowds and boosting foot traffic.
Genesis Veronen, the Shootfest organizer, emphasized the importance of these events for local businesses. “Mall traffic has been slow… and these events are paramount,” said Veronen.
Jessie Veselka, owner of BeYoutiful Bath Body Burn, has noticed a positive impact from the event. “Shootfest has really helped out a lot and having it multiple times per year I think is fantastic,” Veselka said.
The game of Horse starts just after noon and is expected to draw around 100 participants. With so many games happening, businesses anticipate a busy day. Veselka added, “It’s definitely bringing not just players and people who are participating… but also their family and friends… but all sorts of different people.”
Veronen explained the supportive atmosphere at Shootfest. “There’s no teams… there’s nobody on the other side… when people make their clutch shots… there’s dozens of people celebrating and cheering them on,” said Veronen.
Organizers have set rules to level the playing field by banning dunking and dribbling. This allows everyone to compete, including 14-year-old veteran Louis Degenhart, who is aiming to win the tournament for the second consecutive time. “It was unreal… all the work I had put in at my house… just shooting every day… had just finally paid off in a way… and it was really fun,” Degenhart said.
Degenhart also highlighted the community aspect of Shootfest. “I think it’s really awesome, not just all about the basketball and shooting, but bringing the community together… and really making the community feel connected with others,” he said.
Veronen expects a significant turnout this weekend. “I really expect a lot more spectators than ever before… it’s gonna be an amazing weekend,” said Veronen.
Organizers are encouraging more people to sign up for Shootfest, with a $30 fee that includes a custom shirt. Participants should be prepared to bring their best game to see their name on a banner.
For those interested, more information about Shootfest can be found here.
