RUCKER STREET BALL TOURNEY UNDERWAY: Chris Brown, Angie Martinez, Cam'Ron, Ron Artest among celebrity teams this year.

      Since its inception in 1980, the tournament has seen the participation of such hoop stars as Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Pee Wee Kirkland, Earl “The Goat” Manigault, Vince Carter, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Julius “Dr. J” Erving, Rafer Alston, Carmelo Anthony, and Nate Archibald.

      This year, all eyes will be on 19-year old Brandon Jennings, who is expected to be a viable NBA Draft pick on June 25, reports Allhiphop.com. The athlete opted to play overseas in the Italian Lega A while waiting to reach the eligible draft age (19).

       The 29th annual tournament will feature a host of celebrity teams all vying for a year’s worth of bragging rights and highlight reels. Confirmed participants include Ron Artest (Tru Warriors), Maino (Hustle Hard), Angie Martinez (Angie Martinez All-Stars), Chris Brown (Chris Brown All-Stars), Jadakiss (Team 914), Cam’Ron (Team Cam’Ron), and Ron Brownz (Ether Boy Records).       

       Additionally, New York’s MSG (Madison Square Garden) Network will host the four day tournament to 10 million homes nationwide. A total of thirteen episodes will air from July 2-Sept. 24 at 7 p.m. (EST) every Thursday.