The Terrain Invitational is a basketball tournament for members of the technology community. The inaugural event will be held Monday, November 17, 2025 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.
The questions below outline specifics for players and attendees. If you still have questions after reviewing the list below, please feel free to email events@terrain.com, and our team will do our best to answer.
Selection & Registration
How do I get selected for the Terrain Invitational?
Players are invited from across the tech community based on frequency of play, skill level (selecting for a range of abilities), and order of application. Spots are limited for this inaugural single day event.
If we cannot accommodate you to this year’s player squad, we would be happy to consider you to join as an attendee. We will be sending attendee invitations closer to the event date.
Does the Terrain Invitational cost any money to attend?
No, the event is free-of-charge to players and attendees.
Can I request teammates?
You can request to play with up to one person. After receiving your invitation and confirming your attendance, both players must email events@terrain.com with the request in order to be guaranteed as teammates.
Why can I only request one teammate?
This policy maintains competitive balance and encourages forming new relationships through basketball.
What if I am selected and not able to attend?
You will be banned from all future Terrain events.
Kidding, though we are making a custom jersey and merch package specifically for you. So if you can’t attend, please notify us (events@terrain.com) promptly so we can invite someone else from our waiting list.
Event Logistics
What is the format of The Terrain Invitational?
We expect 8 teams of between 8-10 players. Teams will play 5-on-5. Each team will play two morning games for seeding in a single-elimination afternoon playoff culminating in a championship game. Teams will play between three to five games total.
What time should players arrive?
Players should arrive between 8a and 8:30a for registration, warm-up, and gear distribution. You will meet on the court at 9am.
What time will the event end?
Games will end around 5:30 pm, with the after party celebrating standout performances and highlights starting shortly after.. We expect that to end between 8 pm and 9 pm.
Is there parking available at Barclays Center?
Limited parking is available at nearby garages, but we strongly recommend using public transit or ride share. Visit the Barclays Center website for details.
Do you have any recommended hotels?
If you’d like to stay in Brooklyn, we’d recommend the Ace Hotel, Hilton Brooklyn, Marriott Brooklyn Bridge, or 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge.
What is your policy for inclement weather?
Since the event is fully indoors, it will proceed rain or shine.
Venue & Facilities
Will there be locker rooms available?
Yes, locker rooms will be available for changing and storing personal items.
Will medical staff or trainers be available?
Yes, professional trainers and medical staff will be on-site.
Will games be played on a full court?
Yes, all games will be played 5-on-5 on the full-size Barclays Center practice court.
& Rules
What are the specific rules for the games?
Games follow standard basketball rules, slightly modified for tournament play, including shortened halves and a running clock. Detailed rules will be provided ahead of the event.
Will there be referees?
Yes, each game will have professional referees and scorekeepers.
Are there awards for winning teams and players?
Yes, the winning team will be awarded as well as a series of individual player awards provided by Terrain and our sponsors.
Will individual player stats be tracked?
Yes, basic stats (points, rebounds, assists) will be tracked and shared post-event.
Food & Beverage
What food will be provided?
Coffee in the morning, lunch around noon, and water, sports drinks, and snacks throughout the day. An evening reception with drinks and snacks will immediately follow the championship game.
Are there vegetarian or dietary-specific options available?
Yes, we will provide vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Please notify us (events@terrain.com) in advance of any specific dietary restrictions.
Equipment & Apparel
What should I bring to the event?
Bring basketball shoes and any comfortable footwear you prefer between games. Game jerseys, shorts, merch, food, and snacks will be provided.
What kind of merch and gear will I receive?
Each player will receive a custom jersey, shorts, and plenty of additional gear supplied by Terrain and our sponsors.
Can attendees also purchase merch?
Yes, a limited quantity of event-exclusive merchandise will be available for purchase onsite.
Attendance & Guests
Can I bring a plus one to the event?
The Invitational is set up as a professional event, though we’d like to accommodate guests as best we can. Each player may request one guest for the event and reception. To request a guest, email events@terrain.com.
Can I attend if I’m not playing?
Yes, invitations for attendees will be sent closer to the event date.
Will there be any programming or free time during the event?
This is a basketball tournament, not a conference, and we will have no organized speaker sessions. During free time, we hope you watch games, enjoy the venue, and socialize with other players and attendees. There will be wifi available if you need to work.
What is the dress code for attendees?
Attire is casual and comfortable for players and attendees. We will supply off-court apparel for players.
Photography & Media
Will there be an official photographer?
Yes, professional photography will capture event highlights, with images available afterward.