Josh DePalma, a sophomore at Woodland, has always had a passion for basketball, and now he has found a way to combine his passion while honoring his mother, who passed away in 2012 of Breast Cancer. The Karen DePalma 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament occurred last Saturday, March 21, and was dedicated to Mrs. DePalma who lost her 11 year battle with cancer in December  2012.

The tournament began at one oclock’ and included over 15 teams. Coming in first was the “Caucasian Invasion” team: Guy Massimo, Coby Vaccarelli, Jon Scirpo, and Sean McAllen.

Tyler Collodel, Jeremy Rodriguez, Colton Cronin, and Tristan Baxter took second, while DePalma, Adem Rifati, Richard Rousseau and Nick Denze took third.

DePalma notes the tournament couldn’t have happened without the help of Chris Moffo, John Frasco, and several other friends and family that volunteered.

He explains how the tournament is a great way for the community to have fun and support a family in need. All proceeds will be donated to DePalma’s father, Joe DePalma, kidney cancer treatments.

“I was very happy with the turn-out,” Depalma shares. “The tournament is special because I love basketball and I really get to honor my mom. This is something we will definitely keep a tradition.”