Mercer County Hosts Trenton Talks 10th Basketball Tournament
Mercer County Park came alive on Saturday, September 13th, as it welcomed the 10th Trenton Talks Basketball Tournament. More than 300 residents from Trenton and neighboring towns filled the park to cheer on 13 basketball teams competing for the championship title. The festivities also featured a spirited double-dutch jump rope competition. In this energetic community showcase, a portion of the proceeds supported A Better Way, a local Trenton-based foundation.
The team representing Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli claimed the tournament crown. Other team sponsors included County Executive Dan Benson, Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds Jackson, School Board Member Austin Edwards, former Mayor Doug Palmer, Trenton Community Street Team, Moja Life, Much Better Studios, Transformation Church, Royal Cakes, Diesels Therapeutics, and YSP Trucking/Darrin & Sons LLC.
“Ten years ago, this started as a small idea to bring people together through basketball,” said Momolu Dorley, CEO of Trenton Talks. “Now it’s grown into a cornerstone of community pride and connection. We’ve now reached a space where we can reach out to organizations, businesses, and elected leaders to be here with our players.”
“Reaching ten years is an incredible milestone for this tournament,” said Mercer County Executive Dan Benson. “Our parks are here to support organizations that bring unity and positive activities to the community. It’s been great to see Momolu grow this event into a competition that brings out the best in everyone involved.”
“Our men deserve a positive place where they can just be themselves,” said Austin Edwards. “This tournament does that, and it was no question if I was going to support. Here’s to many more years!”
“A lot of these young people need and deserve a community around them,” said Assemblyman Anthony Verrelli. “Seeing elected officials, businesses, and programs like the Street Team communicating with them is key. Momolu has done a great job connecting the dots.”
“Wow, it’s been ten years,” said Assemblywoman Verlina Reynolds Jackson. “One idea that started as a dream has grown into a community tradition. Year after year, Momolu has brought us together on the court, in the stands, and in the spirit of one community. I’m so proud of us, and I can’t wait to celebrate and support this powerful movement again next year.”
