Jackson UnderDawgs announce they will not compete in TBT 2024

JACKSON, Tenn. — The Jackson, TN UnderDawgs regret to announce that the team will not be competing in this summer’s TBT. This will be the team’s first year it’s not entered in the tournament since it’s TBT debut in 2016.

📸: Jackson, TN UnderDawgs

The UnderDawgs made a grand entrance into the $1,000,000 winner take all tournament in 2016 when the team knocked off #1 seed, University of Kentucky Alumni. The group of mostly Jackson natives became the first #16 seed to defeat a #1 seed.

The team found its stride over the years, most notably in 2019 when the UnderDawgs came 3 games shy of winning it all after advancing to the elite 8. Local fans got to look on as the team represented on ESPN.

After winning the 2019 Memphis Regional, TBT named Jackson, TN a 2020 regional host (Oman Arena) before Covid caused the tournament to consolidate to one location.

After much thought & consideration, the decision has been made to forgo this summer’s tournament.

This year, an entry fee of $10,000 was implemented for the first time. The entry fee would be in addition to travel, lodging and training camp cost.

In years past the team has worked to secure some sponsor support locally but have still incurred some out-of-pocket cost to cover all cost of competing. Many teams competing in TBT now are alumni based, representing notable colleges/universities which comes with great support systems.

Now is the time for conversations to take place in preparation for TBT 2025. The UnderDawgs have brought national attention to Jackson/West TN/TN, to the extent that some may consider the team to be an ambassador for Jackson/West TN.

This has been done at no cost for the city. We look forward to first speaking with supporters within the city/West TN area in hopes of securing future support for the players/coaches to compete & represent our area with only competing at their highest level as the focus, & not the cost.

Although the UnderDawgs won’t compete in TBT this summer, the team has plans instead to announce a local event to serve its mission within the area. More information to come.

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