Top teams from Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi will hit the hardwood at the fifth annual McDonald’s Texas Invitational Basketball Tournament, Nov. 15-17 in Pasadena.

McDonald’s restaurant is in its third year as the headline sponsor for the event, which has positioned itself as one of the best high school basketball tournaments in the state. The 48-team boys bracket features several of the state's top ranked teams. The girls division will feature 24-teams again this year. 

The talent in the tournament continues to flourish, as evidenced by the growing number of college scouts that attend the event every year. “I think that speaks volumes about the teams that are participating, and the caliber of talent in this tournament," said Texas Invitational chairman Ben Meador. "This has quickly become one of the top basketball tournaments in Texas.” 

More than 20,000 fans attended the three-day event last year. In addition to basketball, the final day of the tournament will turn into a carnival-type atmosphere as part of the “Hoop-la” celebration. Many events are in the works to add to the day filled of basketball. 

Proceeds from the tournament will be donated to the Pasadena ISD Education Foundation. Last year, the tournament raised more than $75,000 to provide resources for teachers and students. Games will be held at the Phillips Field House, Sam Rayburn High School, South Houston High School, Pasadena Memorial High School, Dobie High School, Pasadena High School, Beverly Hills Intermediate School and Anders Gym at San Jacinto College-Central Campus. 

The event is sponsored by the Pasadena Chamber of Commerce. Many other businesses and companies have shown their support for the tournament by purchasing sponsorships and giving donations to the tournament. 

For information on the tournament, log on to www.texasinvitational.com.