Tennessee United USA Open hoops journey ended in glory as the team captured the national title this weekend—thanks in large part to the clutch performance of a local duo that stole the spotlight. In front of a roaring crowd and national streaming audience, Tennessee United beat a highly competitive East Coast Elite team in the championship final, sealing their spot as USA Open Hoops champions.
It was a hard-fought tournament from start to finish, but it was the contributions of local stars Marcus Grant and Elijah Hayes that lifted Tennessee United in key moments. Their chemistry, hustle, and leadership were the x-factors throughout the title run, drawing praise from coaches, fans, and even rivals.
The Championship Game: High Pressure, High Performance
The final match took place at the USA Open Hoops national tournament held in Indianapolis. Tennessee United faced a tough opponent in East Coast Elite, known for its aggressive defense and quick transition play. From tip-off, it was a battle of momentum.
Tennessee United started strong with back-to-back three-pointers from Grant, who finished the game with 21 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists. Hayes dominated the paint, grabbing 13 rebounds, adding 17 points, and blocking 3 shots that fired up the crowd.
Their impact helped Tennessee United stay ahead for most of the game, eventually winning 78–70 in a nail-biting finish.
“This win means everything,” said Marcus Grant postgame. “We came in with something to prove—not just as players, but as hometown kids showing what Tennessee basketball is all about.”
The Road to the Title
Tennessee United’s path to the USA Open hoops crown wasn’t easy. The team had to go through several regional powerhouses to reach the final, including back-to-back overtime thrillers against Midwest Raiders and Texas Thunder.
Each round saw different players step up, but Grant and Hayes were the consistent forces. Their leadership on and off the court gave the team confidence during tense moments.
“Both Marcus and Elijah have been the heart of this team,” said head coach Bryan Morrison. “They bring energy, composure, and grit—everything you want in championship players.”
Stats That Tell the Story
Across the five games of the tournament, the local duo delivered top-tier numbers:
- Marcus Grant: Averaged 18.4 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 3.5 APG, 45% FG
- Elijah Hayes: Averaged 14.7 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 2.1 BPG, 50% FG
Their all-around performance made them both candidates for tournament MVP, though the honor eventually went to Grant, whose sharpshooting in the semifinal and final was unmatched.
More importantly, both players made everyone around them better—setting screens, communicating constantly, and pushing their teammates to rise to the occasion.
Community Pride and Local Support
The success of the Tennessee United USA Open hoops team has electrified the local basketball community. Fans from Tennessee followed the games online, flooded social media with supportive messages, and even hosted watch parties during the championship weekend.
Back home, community leaders and schools are planning celebrations to honor the team’s achievement. “We’ve always known these boys were special,” said a local high school coach who once trained Grant. “Now the whole country knows it too.”
Local businesses have put up congratulatory banners, and city officials are planning a parade next weekend to celebrate the team’s success and promote youth sports.
What This Title Means for the Program
This is Tennessee United’s first national USA Open hoops crown—a milestone that boosts the club’s reputation nationwide. Recruiters and college scouts are paying attention, especially after the team showed such depth and discipline throughout the tournament.
“Winning a national title like this elevates everyone,” said Coach Morrison. “It brings credibility, improves recruiting, and motivates younger kids in the system to dream big.”
For Grant and Hayes, the title win also increases their exposure to college programs, as both players are entering their senior year of high school and are expected to be top Division I prospects.
Player Profiles: Meet the Local Duo
Marcus Grant, a 6’3” shooting guard known for his quick release and court vision, has drawn comparisons to NBA sharpshooters like CJ McCollum. His ability to create space and hit from deep makes him a constant scoring threat.
“Elijah and I grew up playing together since middle school,” Grant said. “This was our dream—to win something big together. And we did.”
Elijah Hayes, a 6’7” power forward, is known for his physicality and rebounding instincts. His timing on blocks and ability to switch on defense make him a coach’s dream on both ends of the court.
Hayes added, “We weren’t just playing for ourselves—we were playing for everyone who’s supported us back home. That gave us strength.”
What’s Next for Tennessee United
With the 2025 USA Open Hoops championship trophy secured, Tennessee United is now focusing on offseason development. Coach Morrison says the team will continue training, attend scouting showcases, and participate in international exposure camps later this year.
The team is also planning youth development clinics in Tennessee, where Grant and Hayes will serve as guest mentors for upcoming players.
“This title is just the beginning,” Morrison added. “We’re building something that lasts.”
Conclusion
The Tennessee United USA Open hoops crown marks a historic achievement for the team—and it was made possible by two local stars who rose to the occasion. Marcus Grant and Elijah Hayes not only led their team to victory but also inspired an entire community with their passion, talent, and teamwork.
As their journey continues, one thing is clear: Tennessee basketball has two new heroes, and their story is far from over.
