Laurel Youth Recreation hosts youth basketball tournament

LAUREL — Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 brought 38 youth basketball teams to Laurel for the annual basketball tournament hosted by the Laurel Youth Rec.

The tournament drew a large crowd both days. To get a sense of the number of people in attendance, the concession stand went through nearly 50 pizzas and almost 50 pounds of walking taco meat.

Many towns and schools were represented including Allen, Battle Creek, Crofton, Hartington, Laurel, Lutheran High Northeast (LHNE), Norfolk Catholic, Plainview, Ponca, Randolph, Tilden, Vermillion, Wakefield, Wayne and Wynot. There were three age divisions for both boys and girls, third and fourth grade, fifth grade, and sixth grade.

One standout performance over the weekend was delivered by Braxton West, a 10-year-old from Battle Creek, who sank three long-range buzzer-beaters for his team, all on Sunday.

The tournament was made possible by the efforts of the Laurel Rec volunteers, referees, coaches, students, and families who helped with concessions, scorekeeping, and setup throughout the weekend.

The Rec appreciates the help of Laurel’s Hometown Market and Knuckleheadz Bar for their support and flexibility, and Laurel-Concord-Coleridge School and staff for their assistance and for allowing the use of their facilities.

Proceeds from the tournament are used to keep fees down for area youth to participate in a number of rec sports throughout the year.

Results are as follows: 3rd & 4th Grade Boys — First: Battle Creek, Second: Norfolk Catholic, Third: Vermillion 3rd & 4th Grade Girls — First: Crofton (4th Grade), Second: Wakefield, Third: Hartington 5th Grade Boys — First: Hartington, Second: Wakefield, Third: Laurel 5th Grade Girls — First: Crofton, Second: Norfolk Catholic, Third: Laurel 6th Grade Boys — First: Tilden, Second: Laurel, Third: Wakefield 6th Grade Girls — First: Wayne, Second: Crofton, Third: Laurel