Earlier this month, Toronto’s real estate industry came together — not in boardrooms or sales centres, but on the hardwood.
On September 13th, the third annual Ballin’ Out for Charity tournament tipped off at the University of Toronto’s Goldring Centre, drawing developers, brokerages, agencies, trades, and construction companies into friendly competition for a serious cause.
What began as casual pickup games among colleagues has evolved into a city-building tradition. Organized by BLACKLINE and RAD Marketing, the tournament has now raised $250,000 in support of community organizations — with this year’s proceeds directed to MLSE Foundation and its Change the Game campaign.
Over the course of a full day, 20 teams battled it out in a 3-on-3 format, playing through group stages, elimination rounds, and a spirited final that saw Metropia claim victory over Blue Diamond Capital. In total, 37 games were played, with athletes fuelled by camaraderie — and a few complimentary massages during morning play.
Beyond the court, families and fans joined in the fun with live performances from the Raptors North Side Crew, a half-court shooting contest, and an all-ages skills clinic hosted by Elite Camps.
For organizers, the event’s growth reflects both the generosity and the competitive spirit of Toronto’s real estate sector.
“What started as friendly pickup games with industry peers has turned into a movement that has raised close to $250,000 for charity,” says Tim Ng, Founder and CEO of ADHOC Studio and BLACKLINE. “We wanted to create something that brought the real estate community together and it’s grown into a tradition that shows the power of teamwork, sportsmanship, and generosity in our industry. Partnering with the MLSE Foundation allows us to support the next generation by creating opportunities for kids through sport.”
Riz Dhanji, President of RAD Marketing, echoes this sentiment: “We believe real estate is about more than just shaping the skyline — it’s about building up people and communities,” he says. “We’re deeply committed to supporting MLSE Foundation through Ballin’ Out for Charity. Their work using sport to empower youth, develop life skills, and create pathways to education and employment aligns perfectly with our values. As we help shape the physical landscape of our city, we’re equally committed to investing in the social fabric that makes our neighbourhoods thrive.”
The partnership with MLSE Foundation — which has invested over $74 million in youth and communities facing systemic barriers across Ontario — underscores how far the event has come. And for Tashshena McLean, the foundation’s Fund Development Director, the collaboration feels like a natural fit.
“Seeing the real estate industry’s passion, dedication, and competitive drive reflects the values we share in sport philanthropy,” McLean says. “We’re excited to plan for next year and continue growing this impact together.”
The day was made possible thanks to generous sponsors including Sevoy Developments, Slate Asset Management, Daniels, Empire Homes, Resident, Lifetime Developments, Pemberton Homes, Cortel Group, TD Builder Services, HR Reit, and many more.
And as the final buzzer sounded, the tournament left more than a champion crowned. It reinforced the idea that when Toronto’s real estate community comes together, it can make a lasting difference — far beyond the court.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
This article was produced in partnership with STOREYS Custom Studio.