The James D. Watts Sr. Classic basketball tournament is currently taking place in Bellaire, Ohio, bringing together ten local amateur teams for a weekend of hoops action. This tournament, now in its second year, is a double elimination-style competition with a cash prize of $2,000 at stake. The classic is held in memory of James Watts Jr.’s father, James D. Watts Sr., and serves as a way to honor his legacy while bringing the community together for a greater cause.
The tournament officially kicked off on Friday, but the classic as a whole began earlier in the week with a series of community activities. One of the highlights of the week was a kids’ camp held from Tuesday through Thursday, where local children had the opportunity to participate in various basketball activities and learn the fundamentals of the game. The camp was a huge success, with over 60 kids participating on the second day and collectively winning $2,440 in various contests.
In addition to games and drills, the kids’ camp also featured special guest speakers each night, including Ohio State Highway Patrol Sgt. Chase Watts, Wheeling University’s head football coach Zac Bruney, and legendary Ohio Valley basketball coach Gene Ammirante. These speakers provided valuable insights and inspiration to the young participants, making the camp a truly enriching experience for all involved.
The success of the James D. Watts Sr. Classic has inspired Bellaire Mayor Edward Marling to consider the possibility of creating an adult amateur basketball league that would span the entirety of next summer. This league would provide adults in the community with an opportunity to stay active and engaged in the sport they love, filling a void that has been left by the absence of previous outdoor tournaments in the area.
Local sponsors have played a crucial role in supporting the week of events, with businesses such as Gulla’s Hot Dogs, Bellaire McDonald’s, AT&T, and Play It Again Sports stepping up to contribute to the success of the tournament. Their generosity has helped to make the classic a truly special event for the Bellaire community, showcasing the spirit of unity and camaraderie that lies at the heart of the tournament.
Overall, the James D. Watts Sr. Classic basketball tournament is not just about competition on the court, but also about coming together as a community to celebrate the sport of basketball and honor the memory of a beloved figure. With the support of local sponsors and the dedication of organizers like James Watts Jr. and Bill Schmidt, this tournament is sure to continue making a positive impact on the Bellaire community for years to come.
