12th Annual ‘Lil Dribblers Basketball League starts this Saturday at East Middle School Gym

The 12th Annual ‘Lil Dribblers Basketball League will once again offer a free, fun, and low-pressure opportunity for young children in the Butte community to experience basketball in a safe and supportive environment.

Thanks to the generous support of its sponsors — First Interstate Bank, Play 2 Win Tix, Harrington Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company of Butte, Butte Sports, and UpTop Clothing — the program is completely free for families and the fun fires up this Saturday morning.

The program is open to both boys and girls, from as young as one day old through seven years of age, with slightly older children also welcome to participate. Sessions will take place every Saturday from January 3 through March 28, between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., at East Middle School, located at 2600 Grand Avenue in Butte.

The ‘Lil Dribblers program is designed as an open-gym format rather than a structured league. Children are encouraged to play at their own pace and ability level, allowing them to explore the game in a relaxed, positive setting. The focus is on movement, coordination, basic basketball skills, and having fun — not competition or scores. The program’s longtime motto, “Start ’em young, raise ’em right,” reflects its emphasis on early participation, healthy activity, and sportsmanship.

Parents and guardians should note that the gym will not be available on Saturday, February 28. Organizers are working to secure an alternate gym for that date, and updates will be posted on the ‘Lil Dribblers Facebook page.

For additional information, families may contact Mike Bauer at (406)490-7491 or Matt Paul at (406)560-3520.