A Summer of Hoops on the Jersey Shore
The 2026 Jersey Shore Basketball League (JSBL) season is now in full swing, with all games taking place at Manasquan High School. The NCAA‑sanctioned summer circuit brings together eight franchises that blend collegiate standouts, professional veterans and emerging stars, offering fans high‑level basketball without any ticket cost.
This year marks the arrival of a brand‑new team, County Line Auto Body, which replaces the former Intern Helpers. The franchise is owned by Rich Gardella and guided by head coach Steve Porter. Its roster features a mix of seasoned contributors such as Abdul Shanunu, Josh Treadwell, Jachai Simmons and Markus Kennedy, as well as promising talent looking to make an impact.
The league’s reputation as a talent incubator remains strong. Past alumni have gone on to NBA careers, and this season continues that tradition with names like Justin Robinson, Scottie Lewis and Jakari Spence on the court. The presence of former University of Charleston guard Dwanie Jones, whose clutch three‑pointer secured the 2025 title for ACI/Robin’s Nest, adds a narrative of championship pedigree.
Key Storylines
ACI/Robin’s Nest enters the 2026 campaign as defending champions, hoping to repeat the feat that saw them edge out opponents with a late surge. Justin Robinson, a former Sea View Jeep stalwart, aims to steer his squad to a seventh JSBL crown, while Scottie Lewis, drafted by the Charlotte Hornets in 2021, brings NBA experience to the lineup.
The schedule, running from June 30 through August 6, promises a packed slate of matchups, culminating in the championship game on August 6. With 40 Shore Conference alumni spread across the eight teams — 32 of them from Monmouth County and five from Christian Brothers Academy — the competition is expected to be among the most intense in league history.
Looking Ahead
Fans can catch every game for free at Manasquan High School, where the atmosphere blends community pride with top‑tier basketball. As the season progresses, storylines will revolve around how the new County Line Auto Body franchise integrates its roster, whether ACI/Robin’s Nest can retain its crown, and which emerging players will rise to prominence before the August 6 finale.