Toronto’s competitive real estate industry recently traded boardrooms for basketball courts at the third annual ‘Ballin’ Out for Charity’ tournament. On September 13th, the University of Toronto’s Goldring Centre buzzed with energy as developers, brokerages, agencies, trades, and construction companies faced off in a friendly, yet fiercely competitive, 3-on-3 basketball tournament.
What started as informal pickup games among colleagues has evolved into a significant city-building tradition. Organized by BLACKLINE and RAD Marketing, this year’s event raised funds for the MLSE Foundation and its Change the Game campaign, bringing the total raised over three years to an impressive $250,000. This initiative demonstrates the GTA real estate sector’s commitment to giving back to the community.
Over the course of the day, 20 teams participated in a series of 37 games, culminating in a final showdown where Metropia emerged victorious against Blue Diamond Capital. Beyond the on-court action, the event featured entertainment for families and fans, including performances by the Raptors North Side Crew, a half-court shooting contest, and a skills clinic hosted by Elite Camps.
Tim Ng, Founder and CEO of ADHOC Studio and BLACKLINE, emphasized the event’s growth and impact: “What started as friendly pickup games with industry peers has turned into a movement that has raised close to $250,000 for charity.” Riz Dhanji, President of RAD Marketing, added, “We believe real estate is about more than just shaping the skyline — it’s about building up people and communities.”
The partnership with the MLSE Foundation, which has invested over $74 million in youth and communities facing systemic barriers across Ontario, highlights the tournament’s significant contribution to local communities. The event was made possible by the generous support of sponsors including Sevoy Developments, Slate Asset Management, Daniels, Empire Homes, Resident, Lifetime Developments, Pemberton Homes, Cortel Group, TD Builder Services, and HR Reit. ‘Ballin’ Out for Charity’ proves that Toronto’s real estate community can make a lasting positive impact, both on and off the court.
