On Saturday, July 31, 2021, Syracuse Housing Authority (SHA) held the last weekend of the 1st Annual $10K Youth Basketball Tournament. The tournament was for ages 13 – 15 with a prize of $2.5K and this weekend’s tournament will be for the grand prize of $10K for ages 16 – 25.
Leading the initiative is Syracuse Police Officer Brandon Hanks, who SHA is fortunate to have on our staff. A native of the South Side of Syracuse, Officer Hanks credits his time playing basketball, playing in local tournaments, his mentor from On Point for College, and additional support received from his community in his younger years as a large reason for the success he has today.
You may have also seen Officer Hanks in local and national coverage surrounding his popular challenge in local parks where if you score a point against him in a game of one-on-one basketball, he will purchase the winner a pair of sneakers.
SHA aims to bridge the gap between law enforcement, first responders, and our city’s youth and also have a long-term impact on violent crime rates committed by those within our captured age group of youth ages 13 – 25. Through the tournament, participants are connected with different community groups and organizations such as, Planned Parenthood, 100 Black Men of Syracuse, Pathfinder Bank, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse Fire Department, OG’s Against Violence, Vera House, Inc., On Point for College, and more.
“Our goal is to empower and support our youth by introducing them to SHA youth programs, complementing other existing city programs, and serving as a catalyst for additional community involvement. By starting at age 13 when most vulnerable, participants are encouraged to stay in the program year after year until reaching age 25.”
Once they reach their mid-teen years, they are eligible to win the largest prize of $10K, all while taking advantage of the offerings of youth advocacy groups and programming geared at financial empowerment, health and wellness, job training, and more. The tournament is also an event all family members can experience together with music, a free throw contest, free food and drinks, and services for adults.
Opening ceremonies at 10am, were spearheaded by Mayor Walsh, SPD Chief Buckner, SFD Chief Monds, and Executive Director Simmons.
