News Summary

Portsmouth, VA prepares for the second annual ‘Home Is Where the Heart Is’ basketball event at Churchland High School. Kicking off with a youth basketball camp, the weekend will showcase local talent through an all-star game and professional matches. This community-centric event aims to inspire aspiring athletes and highlight basketball’s significance in the region.

Portsmouth Gears Up for a Basketball Bonanza!

This Saturday, Portsmouth, VA is set to be the heart and hustle of basketball as the city’s very own Steven Whitley hosts the second annual “Home Is Where the Heart Is” basketball event at Churchland High School! Last year’s inaugural event was a slam dunk, and this year promises to be even better.

Your Exciting Weekend Ahead!

The festivities kick off on Friday with a *youth basketball camp* from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. over at Atlantic Shores Christian School. Excitement is already buzzing as the camp is filled to capacity! Young athletes will get the chance to learn skills and techniques from knowledgeable coaches, setting the stage for an exciting weekend.

Then, on Saturday, the main events begin! The high school all-star game will start at 2 p.m., featuring rising stars from local schools. These talented young players are ready to shine and show off their skills to family, friends, and basketball fans alike. Following the high school showdown, get ready for the *Summer Jam Classic* at 4:15 p.m., where professional players from the area will hit the court.

A Showcase of Talent

This event is not just about playing basketball; it’s about showcasing the raw talent coming out of the Hampton Roads region. Whitley emphasizes the need for professional opportunities and high-profile summer events since the region currently lacks major professional teams. By organizing this event, he hopes to provide a platform for both young hopefuls and seasoned players to show their skills and possibly get noticed.

Last year’s event featured some big names in local basketball, including Joe Bryant Jr., David McCormack, Briante Weber, and Matt Coleman. This year, fans can look forward to two former MEAC Players of the Year, Joe Bryant and Jamarii Thomas, gracing the court with their talents. Having grown up playing basketball himself in the area, Whitley shares a personal connection with many of the players participating. He seeks to inspire aspiring athletes by connecting them to professionals who have traveled similar paths.

A Meaningful Message

The event embodies a message of hope and inspiration for the younger generation. Not only does it foster community and camaraderie, but it also brings current and future talents together. The interactions they have could spark dreams and ambitions, showing young players that they too can make it in the sport. Whitley envisions an atmosphere that not only celebrates basketball but also builds bridges between different tiers of players. It’s all about community spirit and supporting dreams.

A Community Celebration

As we gear up for another year, it’s clear that “Home Is Where the Heart Is” is more than just a slogan; it’s a celebration of the local basketball scene and everything it represents. Whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan or just looking for some family-friendly fun this weekend, be sure to head over to Churchland High School and join in on the excitement. There’s nothing quite like witnessing local talent shine and inspiring the next generation of players!

So, mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready for a weekend full of basketball, community spirit, and thrills in Portsmouth, VA. Who knows? You might just witness the next basketball star in the making!

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