BERKELEY – An inaugural 3 on 3 basketball tournament provided competition as well as camaraderie while raising $600 for the March of Dimes.
About 60 boys and girls ages 7-16 came out to the Robert L. Taylor Community Basketball Court in the Manitou Park section of town. The tourney was hosted by the Iota Chi Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated (Jersey Shore Sigmas – Ocean/Monmouth County).
The international fraternity focuses on social action and other ways to uplift people, and one of its members is Taylor, the event’s organizer.
“The event went well … better than what we expected,” Taylor stated. “We had a good turnout, some very good players, and all the participants seemed to have experienced a good time … which was our goal.”
After a welcome by Iota Chi Sigma’s President, Derick Bowers, the kids were matched according to their ages. The teams would have had a $50 participation charge, but generous donors and sponsors made it free for everyone.
“We were able eliminate the $50 team fee because of generous folks and our sponsors. None of the participants paid to take part in our event because of that reason,” Taylor said. “Hopefully we can expand it a bit more next year, getting more involvement from other organizations and sponsors … this event can really become big.”
The event was held in conjunction with Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. – Iota Chi Sigma Chapter, the event was sponsored by Unity Pride, Cobra One Bike Club, Toms River Seahawks, Mercer County Ruff Ryders and The Maggie G. Hill Temple #1308 Ibpo Elks (Toms River), among others.
The events winners where recognized following the event with trophies and medals.
The Little League champions were the Underdogs, the Mid Range Champions were the Legends, and the Senior Division champions were the JV Warriors compromised of players Jaidyn Larson, Damian Almonte, Jayden Allarde, Alquan Milligan, and Derek Almonte.
The Most Valuable Player was Jasir Parker of Team Elite of the Senior Division.
“Sports has always been a powerful bridge for our youth, and today was a reminder of what happens when competition meets fun – energy, engagement, and real connection,” said Bowers. “Because of the team sponsorships and support, we’re also proud to give back by contributing to the March of Dimes, extending the impact beyond the court. We appreciate everyone who played a role in making this happen,” added Bowers as he signed an oversized check from the fraternity payable to the March Of Dimes (the selected charity of which all of the proceeds from the event will be donated to).
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