More than 150 middle school students from Harlem, Brooklyn and the Bronx gathered on Feb. 19 for the annual Roads to Success 3X3 Basketball Tournament at The Post on Knickerbocker Avenue in Brooklyn. The event brought together young athletes from RTS after-school programs across New York City for a full day of competition, teamwork and community engagement.
Throughout the tournament, students competed in fast-paced 3-on-3 basketball matchups while also taking part in a 3-point shootout and an All-Star game. Professional referees and coaches oversaw the games, helping create a structured environment where participants could sharpen their athletic abilities while practicing important life skills such as sportsmanship, resilience and leadership.
After several competitive rounds, the championship title went to Harlem’s M.S. 206. Brendan Spector, 13, an RTS participant from M.S. 839 in Kensington, was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player for his standout performance.
The event also featured several highlights beyond the main competition. A friendly exhibition game between RTS alumni and staff members gave current participants the opportunity to see former students remain connected to the program. The RTS Hyde School dance group energized the crowd with cheerleading-style performances throughout the day, adding to the festive atmosphere inside the venue.
Organizers describe the RTS 3X3 Basketball Tournament as more than just a sports competition. The annual event is designed to create a professional-style sports experience while reinforcing values such as discipline, respect and collaboration. By bringing together students from different boroughs and backgrounds, the tournament also helps participants build friendships and confidence both on and off the court.
The program emphasizes inclusivity, welcoming students from diverse communities across the city. Participants include young people from low-income households, immigrant families and children with disabilities, reflecting the organization’s broader mission to provide equitable opportunities for youth development.
The tournament is supported by funding from the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD), which helps make programs like this accessible to students across the five boroughs.
The event also comes during a milestone year for Roads to Success, which is celebrating its 25th anniversary. Since its founding in 2001, the nonprofit organization has served more than 100,000 young people. Today, RTS works with over 8,000 youth and young adults each year, supporting participants between the ages of 4 and 24.
