UTICA - Basketball tournaments are one thing, but Utica's "Hoops and Dreams" competition aims to empower young men and women in the community.

The 14th installment of the tournament is happening this weekend.

Patrick Johnson, the founder of Hoops and Dreams, says the most important thing about this tournament is the ability it has to reach young people - especially young black males and motivate them to achieve success.

With violence, AIDS, and teenage pregnancy on the rise, it's important to engage youth and put some positive messages out there...his tool for the task? Basketball.

Johnson expects between 3,500 people to attend the free event at Proctor Park this weekend.

Between games, motivational speakers from within the Utica Community will step up to the microphone and deliver messages to youth to inspire them.

Johnson says it also pertains to adults who are looking to improve their lives.

"I know that everyone is trying to do better and to be mindful that with some hope and some faith and some action in keeping a positive mindset that anything is attainable," Johnson said.

Here is the schedule:

*Friday, July 18th 5 p.m.

*Saturday, July 19th 10 a.m.

*Sunday, July 20th 11a.m.

All of the games will be played at Proctor Park unless it rains. Then they will be moved to MVCC.

Unfortunately for those who are looking to play in the games, your time has run out.

Organizers say the rosters are set to go Friday.