A Slam Dunk Weekend: U10 Tournament Brings Hoopers Magic to Cherry Brook

What do you get when you mix a jam-packed youth tournament, a historic gym in Cherry Brook, and two professional ballers with serious heart? A weekend these young players will never forget.

On March 22, the gym at Graham Creighton Junior High pulsed with energy as Coach Joe Starr hosted a U10 tournament that brought together 40 kids for a day of full-court action and community spirit. While the school gym was rented for the event, its location holds powerful meaning — nestled in Cherry Brook, a historic African Nova Scotian community where basketball isn’t just a game, it’s a legacy.

And then came the game-changer.

Just before the 12:40 p.m. game wrapped up, Halifax Hoopers stars Lansana Nwosu and Brandon Beloti walked into the gym — and the atmosphere shifted. The players’ eyes lit up. Coaches smiled. The tournament had just hit a whole new level.

Instead of a quick drop-in, Lansana and Brandon rolled up their sleeves (okay, maybe just their shooting sleeves) and got to work — presenting Player of the Game awards, handing out exclusive Hoopers gear to standout Hustle Players chosen by coaches, and sticking around to shoot hoops and chat with the next wave of basketball talent.

“Lansana and Brandon made an appearance at our U10 tournament. My expectation was that they would present a set of awards, give a quick talk, and then leave,” said Coach Starr. “Instead, they shot around with the players, signed autographs, and stayed to watch an entire game. They spoke to the players afterwards like they really knew them! It was beyond my expectations.”

With raffle prizes, giveaways, and genuine connection on and off the court, the Hoopers’ visit turned a great tournament into a legendary one.

Big shoutout to Lansana Nwosu and Brandon Beloti for showing what it really means to be a Hooper — not just in skill, but in spirit. And a special nod to the Cherry Brook and Preston communities, whose basketball roots continue to grow the game and shape future stars.

🏀💙 Hoopers gonna hoop — and inspire.