By Steven R. Mullins
Special to the Voice
The 2025 Best of the West Back-to-School Basketball Tournament was held at May V. Carrigan Intermediate School on Saturday, Aug. 24.
“The tournament is designed to engage youth friendly athletic competition, while providing a fun back-to-school community event,” said organizer Levi Jordan. “The ultimate goal is to create a safe and positive environment that fosters growth, self-confidence and teamwork among young people in West Haven.” he said.
Jordan was joined by Marv Owen, Jr. as event Master of Ceremonies.
Since 2022, Jordan and his family have been hosting the Best of the West. The theme of this annual event is “Basketball, Bookbags and Barbecue.”. In addition to the basketball competitions, youths in attendance received free bookbags and school supplies provided the West Haven Lions Club and other individuals.
Mayor Dorinda A. Borer was on hand to open the festivities as ceremonial referee at the tip-off of the first game. “Lots of excitement, energy and some good old competition made Best of the West a great event. Levi hit it out of the park in bringing the community together for a fun filled day.” Borer said.
Competition winners were:
Swag Facilities won the Best Of The West 5/6 Grade Division.
TS Skills Academy led by Head Coach Tiger Smoke, won the Middle School Division
Team Imprint’s Abdul Toure, and AJ Johnson on One Team Co. were MVP’s of the High School Division
The Third Ave Wolves won first place in the “Mayor’s Trophy Games,” led by Captain Ivan Foskey, who dedicated the trophy to his little brother, Chris, who passed away during the high school football season two seasons ago, #70
Vinnings Law sponsored a scholarship for athlete Machi Tillman, a WHHS senior heading to Central Connecticut State University.