Over the past few weekends, New Ulm has been buzzing with excitement as it hosted a series of youth basketball tournaments. Organized by the New Ulm Basketball Association (NUBBA), these events drew nearly 100 teams from across Central and Southern Minnesota. The boys' tournament on February 8-9 saw participation from 72 teams, while the girls' competition this past Saturday featured 38 teams. These tournaments not only highlight the growing interest in basketball but also underscore NUBBA's commitment to fostering sportsmanship and skill development among young athletes.

The New Ulm Basketball Association (NUBBA) has long been dedicated to nurturing the talents of local youth through basketball. This year, an impressive 216 children signed up for the program, marking one of the highest registration numbers ever recorded. During the recent tournaments, participants showcased their skills in thrilling matches. One standout moment occurred when fifth-grader Audrey Hillesheim was fouled during a lay-up attempt, leading to a tense but victorious 27-23 win against Renville County West. Her teammates, including Finley Frederickson, Mya Rathmann, and Britta Schmidt, watched intently as she demonstrated both skill and resilience.

The tournaments also provided opportunities for other young players to shine. Della Thorson made a memorable play by driving past a defender, with her teammates Emery Monson, Anya Miller, Remi Reike, and Greta Baker cheering her on. These moments of teamwork and individual achievement exemplify the values that NUBBA aims to instill in its members. Volunteers, coaches, and board members dedicate countless hours to ensure that these events run smoothly and provide valuable learning experiences for the young athletes.

As the tournaments concluded, the community celebrated the success of the young players and the spirit of camaraderie that permeated the event. The New Ulm Basketball Association continues to thrive, thanks to the dedication of its volunteers and the enthusiasm of its young participants. These tournaments serve as a testament to the association's mission of promoting basketball skills, sportsmanship, and teamwork among the youth of ISD 88. Through such initiatives, NUBBA ensures that the next generation of athletes is well-prepared to represent their community with pride and excellence.