What began as an idea to bring together alumni basketball players from across the James River District has grown into a 10-team showcase scheduled for Oct. 10 at Longwood University’s Joan Perry Brock Center.
Haskins played for the Amelia County Raiders and graduated in 2012. Branch graduated from Nottoway High School two years earlier after playing varsity basketball for the Cougars and later played at Ferrum College.
Both have remained involved in youth sports as coaches. Branch has coached for the past 11 years at his alma mater, Nottoway High School.
“I’m still actively engaged in the school and the culture,” he said.
Haskins said he finds fulfillment in continuing to coach and mentor young football players.
“It brings me peace, just being there for the kids, helping them out, being a father figure (and) big brother figure,” he said.
Their interest in mentoring younger athletes helped shape their latest venture.
Haskins and Branch are hosting the Oct. 10 Alumni Basketball Showcase. With doors opening at 11 a.m. and the official games starting at noon, the showcase will feature 10 different teams across the James River District.
“I came up with the idea just to make it a whole J...