King of Kings: One of a Kind

King of Kings: One of a Kind

By Max Gordon

Six years later, Utica’s summer basketball league is still going strong.

“The best basketball in Upstate New York.” Those were the words bellowed into the microphone in front of a packed house by Co-league founder and game night host Doneilous King. Monday evening marked the start of the 2012 King of Kings basketball League, which is home to some of the most exciting, fun filled basketball people will see all summer.

The King of Kings League, which is in its 6^th year, is a unique experience for all who attend. How many other leagues have an Emcee shouting into a microphone throughout the duration of the game, or have hip-hop and R&B music coming from DJ SDot and crew echoing throughout the gymnasium during the game, even during free throws? What other league has a halftime show that consists of a one-man dance crew? What other League doesn’t charge an admission fee for games, instead, has the League Co-Founder (Brandon Long) go around during the game and ask people for donations, to give whatever they see fit?

These are just a few of the things that make the King of Kings League special. This league attracts some well-known players, including Syracuse University’s own Brandon Triche. Triche stars for JD’s Finest, which has a big three comprised of Triche, Syracuse reserve Michael Carter-Williams, and future big man Dajuan Coleman. These three were asked to do more than to simply perform on the court at the tip off of the League; numerous requests for pictures were granted by them both during and after the game!

It was hard to find a seat on opening night. These types of names draw in people from all over, packing the gymnasium. However local players also help with attendance. Numerous area legends play in the league. Utica College’s Men’s Assistant Basketball coach, former Ithaca College All American and Notre Dame High School all-star Sean Burton is a staple of “Upstate Swagger.” Deandre Preaster and Walkery Mills, two former Proctor stars help comprise the “Gunnas.” Pat Moore, a junior forward at Colgate University and ex-Notre Dame all-star is one of many other local talents worth coming out to watch.

“There’s nothing else like it in this part of New York,” said Malvin Triche, JD’s Finest coach and father of Brandon Triche. “It keeps the kids in shape, it’s a great atmosphere, and it is the best competition around.” Few could argue with Triche. After all, what other league has Division One stars of the past, present, and future playing on the same court, at the same time?

How could this league get any better? Well, the College Prospect League was founded this year for male players who still have eligibility. This is a great way for local kids to showcase their talent for college scouts. The league “is made up of six teams who will play a five game season on Thursday evenings at Notre Dame High School.” –King of Kings Program

Also new to the King of Kings League is the Excellus SAT Prep program. This goes along with the goals of the King of Kings League, which is “To have participants pursue higher education for personal development.” The SAT program is for both players in the College Prospect League and local female high school basketball players. The program is free.

Each year, the King of Kings League moves closer to its goals of being a community oriented and helpful organization. Through a variety of techniques, the Advisory board of the league has created a nice little niche style of basketball that seems to be pleasing the crowd. With all the entertainment that takes place, the King of Kings League seems to be truly one of a kind.