Over the weekend, the Uptown 3 on 3 basketball tournament in Circleville witnessed a heartwarming victory by father and son teams from Mid State Storm. Brandon Jennings, a former professional basketball player with an illustrious career, not only triumphed in the Nineteen and Over division but also celebrated his son Cooper Jennings’ team clinching victory in the 10-year-olds category.
The Mid State Storm teams displayed outstanding teamwork and skill throughout the tournament. In the 10U category, Cooper Jennings, along with teammates Cota Lewellen, Lee Davis, and Keizer Maurer, showcased their basketball prowess, securing a well-deserved win. Meanwhile, in the 19 and Over division, Brandon Jennings, alongside Phil McKnight, Kale Richardson, and Scooter Wray, demonstrated their experience and determination to emerge victorious in their category.
Reflecting on the tournament, Brandon Jennings shared his thoughts on the event and his background in basketball. “I played for Bloom Carroll decades ago and continued at a small Division 1 school. After two years, I transferred to an NAIA school where I led the country in scoring and earned All-American honors,” Jennings recounted. “I later played professionally overseas. Basketball has been a passion that I’ve passed on to my children, coaching both my son and daughter in school ball and with Mid State Storm during the spring and summer AAU seasons.”
When asked about his enduring love for the sport, Jennings emphasized the valuable lessons basketball has taught him over the years. “Basketball has taught me confidence, a strong work ethic, resilience in the face of adversity, and the importance of achieving both personal and team goals,” he explained. “These are values I strive to impart to my own kids and to the young players I have the privilege to coach.”
Watching his son achieve success on the court was a deeply gratifying experience for Jennings. “Seeing my son and his teammates enjoy themselves, show sportsmanship, play with determination, and support each other throughout the tournament was incredibly rewarding,” Jennings expressed. “Their teamwork and dedication to winning together were truly remarkable.”
The Uptown 3 on 3 basketball tournament, now in its fourth year, attracted 55 teams of four players each, showcasing a vibrant display of basketball skills and camaraderie. The event continues to be a highlight for Circleville, bringing together families and basketball enthusiasts from across the region.
As Brandon Jennings and his son Cooper celebrate their shared victory, they embody the spirit of sportsmanship and family bonding fostered by community events like the Uptown 3 on 3 basketball tournament. For more of Sciotoposts coverage of the 3 on 3 click here: https://www.sciotopost.com/uptown-classic-3-on-3-tournament-draws-basketball-enthusiasts-to-downtown-circleville/
