Esports

Mayor Malik Evans will inaugurate the Mayor’s NBA 2K & Tekken 8 Invitational, an esports tournament, at noon on Saturday, June 1st, 2024, at the Trent Jackson R-Center.

Dozens of children and young adults are registered to participate in the tournament, which provides a dynamic platform for players to showcase their skills in a highly competitive environment. Spectators are welcome to attend the free tournament, with doors opening at 11 a.m. for registration. Walk-in registration will conclude by 11:30 a.m. to ensure a prompt tournament start at noon. 

Participants interested in pre-registering can do so at: https://forms.office.com/r/1y48jdJEyS. 

This event is part of Mayor Evans’ broader initiative to cultivate opportunities for youth in esports and video gaming, recognizing the significant benefits such as cognitive development, teamwork, and social interaction. Esports also fosters critical skills like leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, analysis, and problem-solving.

The global esports market is rapidly expanding, with revenues increasing from $996 million in 2020 to an expected $1.8 billion by 2025, according to Statista. This growth underscores the importance of integrating esports into educational and recreational programs across municipalities. Many institutions, including Keuka College, Ohio State University, and the University of California Irvine, now offer degrees in E-Sports Management.

Date: Saturday, June 1st, 2024
Time: Doors and registration begin at 11:00 AM. The tournament starts at noon.
Location: Trent Jackson R-Center, 460 Oak Street, Rochester, NY
Contact: Press Officer Carlet Cleare at Carlet.Cleare@cityofrochester.gov.