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Bucketz for Billups celebrates late alumnus

S.L. FULLER

News Editor

 

Some might think that during the NCAA’s March Madness basketball tournament, college students spend what little money they have on beer and pizza to gear up for the games. But last Saturday, 25 teams each put in $20 to take part in Enactus’ own basketball tournament at Fredonia.

25 teams participated in the bracket-style tournament
25 teams participated in the bracket-style tournament. Photo by S. L. Fuller

Bucketz for Billups, named in honor of the late Fredonia alumnus and basketball standout, Amir Billups, was held as an event to raise money for the Boys and Girls Club in Dunkirk. All proceeds from registration, and other donations, were given directly to the Boys and Girls Club.

 

“We started planning, I want to say, a month or two ago,” said Jillian Burgess, senior psychology major and executive board member of Enactus. “Now we want to make it an annual thing, so we’re going to get planning [and] hopefully make it bigger and better. The turnout [today] is awesome.”

Senior Blake Montgomery dribbles the ball as he faces off with Charles Young Jr.
Senior Blake Montgomery dribbles the ball as he faces off with Charles Young Jr.  Photo by S. L. Fuller

Dods gym was buzzing with people, players and spectators alike. Among the spectators were Billups’ parents, Fredonia basketball alumni and some of Billups’ former teammates from the Buffalo 716ers.

 

At half time, all attendees joined hands in prayer, and an honorary number 32 jersey was presented to Billups’ teary-eyed parents.

Attendees hold hands in prayer for Billups at half time
Attendees hold hands in prayer for Billups at half time. Photo by S. L. Fuller

“He has to be so happy that this is happening,” said senior finance and economic major Sarah Smith.

 

Smith is the treasurer of Enactus, who was also close friends with Billups.

 

“It’s just a great thing, especially having kids here … playing his favorite sport,” Smith said.

Children from the Dunkirk Boys and Girls Club pose with members of Enactus and Billups' parents
Children from the Dunkirk Boys and Girls Club pose with members of Enactus and Billups’ family. Photo by Susan McNamara

Multiple clubs came together to support this fundraiser, including: The Rotaract Club, InterVarsity, Fred Fit, Club Basketball and Brother to Brother.

 

At the end of the day, a total of $525 was donated to the Dunkirk Boys and Girls Club. While $495 came from registration, the last $30 was raised from donations collected during the event.

 

“[Bucketz for Billups] is great because it’s all going for the Boys and Girls Club, so it’s helping them with their basketball program,” said Smith.“We thought this would be a great opportunity to remember [Billups] and his favorite sport.”

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