As The Valley League continues to grow, so does its impact—on and off the court. And if this year’s finale is any indication, the future of local basketball is brighter than ever.

But for Coach Morrison, it\'s about more than just talent. This year, the Thunder are proudly partnering with the Humaneight Foundation, an organization that designs clothing for neurodivergent individuals while conducting vital research to help create inclusive opportunities. This isn’t just another sponsorship, it’s a personal cause. The GM, her son Lucas, who has Aspergers, is making history as the youngest general manager in TBT history. For him and for Coach Morrison this partnership represents something bigger than basketball. “This is a dream partnership,” she says. “Winning is temporary. Changing the game is forever.”

Like many adaptive sports teams, the Cardinals face steep challenges. Travel is logistically difficult and financially taxing — with the nearest team at least an hour away, and others as far as four or more hours. Equipment is also expensive: a good sports wheelchair can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $8,000. Ana credits the Kelly Brush Foundation with helping to cover the cost of her own chair. But what perhaps weighs heaviest is the emotional toll — the journey of adjusting to a new body, a new identity, and a world that still often lacks accessibility and awareness.

“My life is about paying back and giving what I can to those who need it,” he says. This drive led him to found The Valley League, an adult basketball league in Allentown, PA, designed to give young people a safe space to escape the streets, be themselves, and find purpose through the game they love.

Now at the collegiate level, Brady is pursuing a degree in finance while continuing to chase his goals on the football field. His top priorities are earning a starting quarterback role and developing into the best version of himself both as a player and a person.

Shaw credits much of his journey to his parents, whose constant support has fueled him through highs and lows. Also to the game of football, he says, gave him structure, kept him focused, helped him earn a college degree, and kept him away from trouble.

Growing up in Connecticut, this player got into basketball in high school after missing football tryouts. He decided to take the game seriously and found his way to NHTI in New Hampshire, where he played for two years. Eventually, he transferred to Penn State Wilkes-Barre, which became his home. His senior year started rough with a broken finger that kept him off the court. But just a few months later, he was back, helping his team win a national championship in 2023—a huge moment that showed his drive.

In 2019, he found his true calling in coaching and he hasn’t looked back. As he is now head coach of both the men’s and women’s basketball programs at Penn State Scranton. He believes it’s about more than wins and losses. It’s about culture, community, and creating opportunities for those often overlooked.

In the fall, Logan will be entering his sophomore year at Liberty University, where he is part of the LU Bass Fishing Team — a competitive collegiate fishing program that has given him the chance to pursue his passion at a higher level. Last season, Logan and his fishing partner, Gavin Sheffer, placed 41st out of 300 boats in the ACA (Association of Collegiate Anglers) tournament held at Pickwick Lake in Alabama — a notable achievement in one of the country’s top college-level fishing events.

Hammett took over the men’s basketball program at Penn State Wilkes-Barre (PSWB) in March 2015. Over nine seasons, he built a powerhouse, amassing a record of 201-77, the best in school history.

Despite these setbacks, Nick remains determined. With a new coaching staff coming in, he plans to return next season with renewed focus, ready to work hard, earn his spot, and be a key contributor. His ultimate goal is to help lead Keystone to a conference championship.

What drew Makenzie to Lafayette wasn’t just the athletics but also the tight-knit community and family-like culture that helped her thrive. She credits the low faculty-to-student ratio and the school\'s dedicated support for athletes as keys to her success, both on the field and in the classroom. Her academic drive has earned her a spot on the Dean’s List, a reflection of the same discipline she brings to her sport.

Her college journey hasn’t always been smooth. As a freshman, Rachel found herself in and out of the lineup, struggling mentally with the uncertainty of her role. But by the fourth game of the season, she earned a starting position and never looked back.

At the collegiate level, Jack has found a true home at CNU. This past season, the team made a deep run to the Elite 8 in the NCAA Tournament, and Jack has his sights set even higher, hoping for a Final Four appearance next season.

One of the biggest influences in Kira’s journey has been Matt Flanagan, who has worked with her since eighth grade. His guidance, support, and shared work ethic have played a pivotal role in helping Kira elevate her game both mentally and physically. She speaks highly of their relationship and attributes much of her development to the foundation they built together.