help Recruit for 2026

Moline, IL – The nets were sizzling, the competition was fierce, and the community spirit was soaring this past April, as the 2025 Moline Youth Basketball HORSE Tournament transformed the legendary Wharton Field House into a battleground of hoops mastery. This isn't just a game; it's a vital fundraiser for Moline Youth Basketball, and this year, the numbers are in, proving it was nothing short of a slam dunk for the program's mission!

The stats tell an undeniable story of growth: a phenomenal 48 participants showcased their trick shots and shooting prowess, backed by an impressive 33 sponsors who stepped up to the line. The collective effort pushed Moline Youth Basketball well beyond this years goal. Proceeds help bolster the high school programs and develop the next generation of Maroon talent.

Moline Youth Basketball, spearheaded by a dedicated nine-member board including President Geoff Manis and Marketing & Fundraiser Chair Brian Jackson, are meticulously building a foundation, producing players who can truly take their game to the next level. Visit our program website at https://www.molineyouthbasketball.com for more information about us.

The court action was nothing short of electrifying. As Fundraiser Chair Brian Jackson eloquently put it, "The Melissa Sandoval vs. Matt ‘QB1’ Dannenfeldt was one of the first matches to gain spectator interest. Melissa secured a come from behind against the Class of 92’ alum, advancing into the round of 32 and eventually finished the day in the Sexton Ford Sweet Sixteen."

Our next mention comes from the tournament recruitment pipeline, “Newcomer Trevon Gilmore caught my eye early with the vintage Bulls warmup gear. He showed off early strategy with his behind the backboard playmaking ability, dropping in a close out shot on Matt Norris from a bit of range. That kind of spot shot requires higher arc at range and is the kind of added skill only those reaching the tournament Elite 8 can pull off more often than not." Pure clutch!

The Final Four action was a masterclass in skill and strategy. The Floor Crafters Elite 8 matchup between Braedon Peters and Ky VanKerrebroeck had everyone on the edge of their seats. "Peters went to the rule book and exposed the VanKerrebroeck weakness under rule 7, the bank shot. Taking the recent Hall of Fame inductee from the Geneseo class of 1994 to the bank, Peters knocked out the 2-time Horse Tournament Champion to return to his second Final Four and run to a second place finish." What a call!

Congratulations are due to our elite participants who clawed their way into this year’s Final Four, earning themselves automatic one-seeds in the 2026 Tournament:

• Clint’s Draft House Region - Ryan Scannell: Moline Class of 2001, holds an all-time record of 11 wins and 3 losses in the Moline Tournament. A true shooting legend, he drained 108 three-pointers and accumulated 882 points across four years for the Maroon Varsity team, helping them compile an impressive 86 wins and 29 losses. Scannell proved why he's an all-time great by clinching the tournament championship!
• Floor Crafters Region - Braedon Peters: Moline Class of 1996, boasts a strong 11-4 all-time record in the Moline Horse Tournament. His strategic play earned him a well-deserved second-place finish.
• Sexton Ford Region - Anthony Beaird: Moline Class of 2002, with a 6-2 all-time record in the Moline Horse Tournament.
• Central Store Region - Bryce Jackson: Alleman Class of 2027, with a 5-2 all-time record in the Moline Horse Tournament.

The 2025 Moline Youth Basketball HORSE Tournament was more than just a competition; it was a vibrant display of community engagement, athletic talent, and dedication to a worthy cause.

A huge thank you to all the participants, the incredibly generous sponsors, and the dedicated volunteers who made this event a resounding success. Stay tuned for next year, and consider reserving your entry early to be part of the excitement. Let's keep this momentum going, Moline!