Inaugural SHS boys’ basketball alumni tournament a resounding success

SANDPOINT — This past Saturday at the new and improved Les Rogers Court, the Sandpoint High boys' basketball team, local youth athletes and supporters alike had a chance to connect and mingle with a handful of former Bulldogs at their inaugural alumni tournament and community breakfast fundraiser.

The breakfast, which was held at the high school commons before the alumni tournament, helped raise funds for the team's upcoming trip to Arizona, where they'll compete at the 25th annual Cactus Jam Phoenix Hoop Classic from Dec. 26 to 31 at various area high schools such as Skyline Prep, Chandler Prep, Cicero Prep and Scottsdale Christian. In the past, prestigious teams from Washington, California, Oregon and Hawaii have attended this particular event.

Following the breakfast, the alumni tournament saw six adult teams from throughout the region take to the courts, competing in three games each at both the high school and middle school gyms. Despite relatively modest alumni participation, the atmosphere was filled with good energy as old friends squared off and reminisced on memories of their past high school playing days.

Conner Childs, Sandpoint High's varsity assistant coach, even made in appearance in tournament. Current SHS boys' basketball players, who volunteered to run the scoreboards and keep time for the games, enjoyed cheering him on.

The event's organizers wanted to extend their thanks to the community members who came out to support the team. They said it was a joy to see past and current players talking with and encouraging local youth athletes to be their best, regardless of the sports they choose to participate in.

Organizers deemed the tournament and fundraiser a success and are hopeful that next year will bring even more alumni back to Sandpoint to continue this newfound tradition, which's goal is to strengthen the bond between past and future Bulldogs. In addition to this event, alumni and community members are encouraged to look out for more opportunities to get involved and support the team before their upcoming trip to Phoenix.

    Sandpoint High senior Wil Leisy, a varsity shooting guard for the Bulldogs, is all smiles alongside local AAU player Ethan Garza at the inaugural alumni tournament this past Saturday.