The fourth annual James D. Watts Sr. Classic will unfold from August 4 through August 9 at the Bellaire Outdoor Basketball Courts, turning the small Ohio Valley town into a hub of basketball activity.
The schedule splits into two streams: a free kids camp running August 4‑6, followed by an adult tournament from August 7‑9 that offers a $3,500 prize to the winning team, with a $25 entry fee per team.
The event was founded by James Watts Jr., Bill Schmidt Jr. and Rick Leigh as a tribute to their mentor James D. Watts Sr., who passed away in 2021, and it seeks to continue his legacy of mentorship and love for the game.
Honoring a Community Leader
A moment of silence will punctuate the tournament to honor former Bellaire Mayor Ed Marling, who died in April and was instrumental in securing permits, repainting court lines and rallying village support.
This year’s camp will feature guest speakers Alexis Bordas, a West Virginia University women’s basketball player, and Calvin Bubby Goodwin, varsity boys coach from Lindsly, who will address the young participants.
Organizers have made the camp free this year amid financial strain on families, many of whom have faced cuts to school clothing assistance programs, underscoring the event’s role as a safe, accessible outlet for the Ohio Valley youth.
With roughly ten teams expected, the tournament promises competitive play while reinforcing the community’s commitment to honoring Watts Sr.’s spirit of mentorship.