Twelve-year-old Crystal, a student attending Boston Secor Community Center’s “Roads to Success” cornerstone program in Easchester, proved to be the sharpest 3-point shooter during a basketball shoot-out contest held on Feb. 20 at The Post in Brooklyn. The event was part of the Roads to Success Annual Basketball 3V3 Tournament, which brought together middle school students from The Bronx, Harlem and Brooklyn.

 

Crystal won the 3-point shootout, while Zain from M.S. 839’s Roads to Success afterschool program in Brooklyn took home the runner-up position with an impressive performance. “Congratulations to Crystal and Zain for showcasing the true spirit of sportsmanship, respect, resilience and camaraderie,” tournament organizers later said.

 

Roads to Success middle school students from all three locations came together in Brooklyn this year for what organizers said was an unforgettable day of competition and community. Over 150 young athletes from underserved communities had an opportunity to showcase their skills, embrace teamwork, and experience a professional sports atmosphere.

From intense 3-on-3 match-ups, to the thrilling 3-point shootout, and a highly-anticipated All-Star game, the tournament was filled with energy, passion and incredible talent, according to the organizers. With professional referees and coaches guiding the games, the players sharpened their athletic abilities and reinforced essential life skills like sportsmanship, resilience, and leadership.

“The Roads to Success Annual Basketball Tournament was more than just a series of games,” said Sheila Duke, CEO of Roads to Success. “It was a platform for youth to build confidence, forge friendships, and embrace inclusivity. Players learned the value of teamwork, discipline, and respect, both on and off the court.”

 

She added, “The event welcomed youth from diverse backgrounds, including asylum-seeking families and low-income households, fostering a sense of unity and belonging.  Our staff made sure that each young person had the support needed to perform at their best and, above all, have a great time.”

After a full day of competition, the team representing the Roads to Success pathways program at the New Design School in Harlem emerged victorious, finishing with an undefeated 8-0 record and securing the championship title. “Bravo to the young players!” the organizers later said.

NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) were thanked for their “generous support” in making the event possible, as were all the schools, coaches and players who made it a fun-filled day of great success.

According to its founders, Roads to Success, a nonprofit organization, empowers future leaders and changemakers by helping young people, ages 4 to 24, discover their potential, pursue their passions, and open doors to brighter futures. Founded in 2001, Roads to Success serves over 7,000 youth and young adults annually.

 

Representatives say the nonprofit’s comprehensive approach encompasses academic support, social-emotional learning, workforce skill development, financial literacy, wellness and post-secondary orientation. For more information please visit: https://www.roadstosuccess.org/