For most of us, the days after Thanksgiving are full of post-feast recovery, Black Friday bargain hunting, putting up Christmas decorations, and ringing in the Christmas season at the Dickens Holiday celebration downtown. But for an increasing number of local basketball players and fans, the weekend after Thanksgiving is for Hoops and Dreams.
The hardwood at Methodist University hummed with elite energy on the weekend after Thanksgiving as the eighth annual Hoops and Dreams Showcase took place on November 28–29. With a full gym, a record-breaking performance, and a gallery of future talent, the event lived up to its reputation as the premier Thanksgiving basketball tradition in North Carolina.
The atmosphere was electric from the opening tip-off on Friday morning. Tournament organizers reported a stellar turnout, with a steady flow of fans resulting in a gym that was mostly full for both days of competition. In total, the event drew approximately 1,200 patrons, with the total headcount reaching 1,600 when accounting for the elite roster of players, coaches, and scouts in attendance.
A Stage for New Talent and Epic Performances
This year’s showcase featured a diverse field of 18 teams from public and private schools around the Sandhills region, including several programs making their first-ever appearance in the tournament. The fresh competition provided a new look for scouting services and long-time fans alike.
Among the weekend’s most exciting performances came from Union Pines High School standout Kingsley Donaldson (#11, pictured here). In a performance that will be talked about for years to come, Donaldson shattered the tournament scoring record, dropping a massive 44 points to go along with 24 rebounds. His dominant presence in the paint and efficiency from the floor helped to cement his status as one of the region's most productive prospects.
Another notable performance was by local favorite Justin Caldwell of Fayetteville Academy. The senior, who has already committed to play at Georgetown University next year, delivered a signature performance with 34 points and 9 rebounds. Caldwell’s ability to anchor the interior while flashing refined offensive skills showed exactly why the Hoyas prioritized him in the 2026 class.
Scouting and Exposure
Exposure is the heartbeat of the Hoops and Dreams Showcase. While Phenom Hoops provided a global audience via their livestream, allowing college coaching staffs across the country to tune in, the gym was also crowded with excited fans, families, and friends.
At least four college coaches were present in person, primarily representing local colleges whose schedules allowed for a trip to Fayetteville. The early days of the basketball season make travel tricky for coaches, but the availability of streaming helps them catch the action happening throughout the tournament when they can’t attend in person. Additionally, at least two national scouting services were on hand to evaluate the talent. The feedback from these stakeholders was overwhelmingly positive, with coaches and scouts praising the organization and the high
level of play.
Community Support and Future Growth
The success of the showcase was made possible through the support of key community partners. Stop & Ride Automotive and Hutton Law Firm served as the event's primary sponsors, helping cover the extensive costs associated with the two-day tournament, including but not limited to gym rental, security, officiating, medical staff, and insurance. Their investment ensured a safe and professional environment for the athletes to compete.
As the final whistle blew on Saturday night, the impact of the weekend was clear. Not only did the event provide a platform for current stars like Donaldson and Caldwell, but it also sparked significant interest from other local programs. Tournament organizers noted that several area teams have already expressed interest in joining the field for future years, promising even more growth for Fayetteville’s premier event for rising basketball stars.

(Photo: Tyler Moore, a Senior at Northwood Temple Academy, is also a licensed pilot, and has a Presidential & Congressional nomination from U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis with aspirations of getting accepted in the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. Photos by Joseph Amador, @Jowithdacam)