Written By JR Robinson

Hoop to be Heard: Commissioner Britney Thornton’s Countywide Basketball Tournament Unites Memphis Communities

Memphis, TN – In a vibrant celebration of athleticism, youth leadership, and neighborhood pride, Commissioner Britney Thornton and the District 10 Office are bringing the community together for the 2nd Annual “Hoop to be Heard” Basketball Tournament. From Tuesday, October 14th through Saturday, October 18th, this electrifying showcase promises to turn Memphis’s community centers into arenas of possibility, connection, and local glory.

A Vision for Unity and Empowerment

Commissioner Thornton’s vision for “Hoop to be Heard” is clear: basketball as a catalyst for community engagement and youth empowerment. This five-day tournament isn’t just about competition and highlight-reel moments; it’s a celebration of Memphis’s unique culture — uniting neighborhoods, inspiring young leaders, and creating a joyful space where every voice matters.

Planned and co-hosted by District 10’s young adults, this year’s tournament spans all five community centers within the district: Pine Hill, Bethel LaBelle, Glenview, Whitehaven, and Orange Mound. Such cross-neighborhood collaboration is both a testament to the energy of Memphis’s next generation and a signal of the city’s future — one built on shared goals, teamwork, and respect.

Tournament Schedule

• Tuesday, October 14th: Pine Hill Community Center — 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

• Wednesday, October 15th: Bethel LaBelle Community Center — 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

• Thursday, October 16th: Glenview Community Center — 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

• Friday, October 17th: Whitehaven Community Center — 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM

• Saturday, October 18th: Orange Mound Community Center (Championship Game) — 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Champions, Culture, and Celebration

Each evening will showcase high-energy basketball matchups, local entertainment, and special community spotlights on the heritage, talent, and vibrancy of Memphis neighborhoods. Whether you’re cheering for your local team, reuniting with old friends, or discovering new voices, “Hoop to be Heard” is crafted as a family-friendly event — fully open to the public, with admission free all week.

Players can sign up for free, with every member of the Championship team taking home a grand prize of $1,000, awarded during Saturday’s climactic showdown in legendary Orange Mound. Teams are encouraged to register online at www.bit.ly/hooptobeheard2 — but the spirit of the tournament extends beyond the court, welcoming everyone in District 10 to share in the pride, energy, and possibility.

A Movement, Not Just a Tournament

“Hoop to be Heard is more than a tournament — it’s a movement,” says Commissioner Thornton. “We’re using the power of basketball to remind our young adults that their voices matter, their communities matter, and their futures are worth fighting for.”

This year’s initiative is possible thanks to the essential support of the Shelby County Sheriff Department, Memphis Parks, and a dedicated promotion team comprised of local young adults. Their tireless outreach has engaged residents, recruited teams, and helped create positive energy that spreads to every corner of District 10.

From basketball enthusiasts to local families and longtime neighbors, attendance is open to all. Doors at each community center open 30 minutes before game time, laying out the welcome mat for unity, celebration, and maybe even a bit of friendly rivalry.

Hoop to be Heard: Honoring Memphis’s Legacy, Building its Future

The Championship Game in Orange Mound isn’t just the end of a tournament — it’s a tribute to Memphis’s rich basketball tradition, and, more importantly, it’s a promise to support youth development and community collaboration for years to come.

Whether you come to play, cheer, or connect, you’ll find that “Hoop to be Heard” is a testament to the city’s heart. It’s a living example of what happens when communities put young people at the forefront, celebrate local talents, and champion neighborhood unity.

Be a Part of the Story

For more information, follow Britney Thornton on Facebook or contact the District 10 Office at district10@britneythornton.com.
Teams can register at www.bit.ly/hooptobeheard2.

Join Memphis for a week of hoops, hope, and a chance to make your voice — and your neighborhood — heard.
Admission is always free. Let’s celebrate together!