SWFL athletes join Hoops on Mission at FGCU to support kids

There are only a few things Dwayne Jackson loves more than basketball, and one of them  is giving back to his Southwest Florida community. Jackson, the founder of Hoops on Mission, uses his love of the game to put together events that brings people together.

Nonprofit Hoops on Mission hosted its second annual 3-on-3 basketball tournament at Alico Arena on FCGU’s campus Saturday.

“Participation is a lot of adults and business owners from around the community and coaches and leaders that all participate in this 3-on-3 event,” Jackson said. “I didn’t think it was gonna be this big, but it is. So I’m thankful for that.”

Twenty teams participated in the tournament this year. The teams were comprised of athletes of all ages, competing for a prized trophy.

“So you win that trophy, you get to take it home for bragging rights,” Jackson said. “And then you gotta bring it back next year.”

Games were officiated by players with FGCU men’s basketball team.

I have a good relationship with coach [Michael] Fly,” Jackson said. “And I know Caleb Catto. I’ve been training him since the fourth grade.”

Everyone involved is helping raise money for youth sports programs aimed at keeping kids off the streets and leading them toward a brighter future.

“There’s people from all over the town that come out to this event,” said Catto, a guard on the men’s team. “And it just goes to show who Dwayne is and the impact he’s made.”

This tournament is a chance for Jackson to join together with a love greater than basketball.

“My daughter is so bright, so smiley, always loving,” Jackson said. “She loves basketball. She’s like ‘Daddy you going to work to play ball?’”

Jackson’s vision with Hoops on Mission comes to light at an event like this tournament, and the outcome reaches his ultimate goal in the community.

“I’m thankful for everybody who signed up and donated,” Jackson said. “All the money is going back to those kids that we impact on a daily basis.”

Team Franchise took home the prized trophy as well bragging rights until next year.

For more information about Hoops on Mission, visit its website.

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