Gompers Panthers Ready To Shine At 2nd Annual Holiday High School Basketball Classic In Queens
When head coach Ned Jackson and the Gompers Panthers Varsity Boys Basketball team steps onto the court at Springfield Gardens High School in Queens in late December at the 2nd Annual Holiday High School Basketball Classic presented by Ballin’ 4 Peace, they won’t just be competing in another tournament.
The Panthers will be playing for the chance to make a difference beyond the basketball court.
“In the times that we are living in, it’s important than ever to promote peace among your people,” said Coach Jackson when asked what it means to have the Panthers selected to play in the annual holiday tournament.
“My message to my team is that we are all in a fraternity of basketball enthusiasts – coaches, players, and referees. It’s important to respect the game and promote the positive sides of competition.”
That competition for the Panthers speaks volumes about their desire to standout in a deep and talented PSAL while also representing the Bronx. Led by Prince Kamate (2023) and Gavin Murray (2024), Gompers High School returns to the 2nd Annual Holiday High School Basketball Classic after a strong showing last December.
At 6’4 Kamate (pictured) is a second-year player who received Athlete of the Year honors last year for Gompers after the guard/forward showcased his talents and the ability to notch a triple-double each time he steps on the court. Thanks to an offseason with the Riverside Hawks where he continues to develop and grow, Kamate has college offers on the table and remains a player to watch around the PSAL. Along with Kamate, the 5’11 combo guard Murray has quickness and an aggressive mentality on both ends of the floor. Showing promise and maturation since joining the team in the offseason, Murray along with Kamate strike a strong one-two punch for the Panthers.
“We are looking forward to competing against programs that have had success and continue to play the game the right way,” Coach Jackson explained.
“It is my hope that we come away with the exposure and recognition for our Seniors at the Classic.”
The 2nd Annual Ballin’ 4 Peace Holiday High School Classic basketball tournaments tips-off at Springfield Gardens High School in Queens at 10:00 am on both Tuesday, December 27 and Wednesday, December 28, with Boys and Girls Middle School and JV games taking place on Tuesday and Varsity games scheduled for Wednesday, followed by a trophy presentation and prizes to wrap-up the event.
Confirmed Varsity teams include Thomas Edison High School, George Washington High School, Bayside High School, Broome Street Academy, Hillcrest High School, Summit Academy, Springfield Gardens, Van Buren High School, Cardozo High School, Thurgood Marshall High School, Queens High School of Teaching, Liberal Arts and the Sciences, Erasmus Hall High School, Eagle Academy, and Gompers High School.
Purchase your tickets to the 2nd Annual Ballin’ 4 Peace Holiday High School Basketball Classic today.
Stay tuned to Ballin 4 Peace on social media (Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn) for further announcements, updates, and information.
For partnership and sponsorship opportunities with the Ballin’ 4 Peace Holiday High School Basketball Classic, please contact Haron Hargrave (info@ballin4peace.org -- 718.757.4234).
*photo credit to Prince Kamate