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It's safe to say that The Basketball Tournament's initial run this past week at WesBanco Arena in Wheeling was a success. From great matchups to wonderful community events happening all around the arena, those visiting got to experience the best of Wheeling.
But it was not just the games or the events that stood out -- it was the people. That included local announce teams, volunteers selling merchandise and others making the tournament work. That should help draw the TBT back to Wheeling in 2024.
On the announcer side, the TBT utilized the Mountain East Conference for finding the right talent. That search began and ended with Dave Flatley, longtime voice of the Wheeling Nailers.
Joining him were Rick Soos keeping stats and Chuck Haggerty running the clock.
"We have a great table crew, and the camaraderie here is excellent," said Soos. "When the game starts, it doesn't feel very different from a MEC basketball game for us."
The J.B. Chambers YMCA had volunteers selling merchandise during the week. This led to increased exposure and also an in-kind donation from the TBT.
"Not only is it good for the YMCA money-wise to be at TBT, but it's also beneficial for our organization just to be seen at these popular community events," Chris Thoburn said. "I'm thrilled we're playing a part in what TBT (had) going on here."
It takes much effort to make events such as this happen, and our community is blessed to have such dedicated members.