WILMINGTON, DE—If you’re looking for innovation and impact in the overcrowded space that makes up girls grassroots basketball, you need look no further than Blue Star 30. In its fourth year and fresh off an inaugural European edition, Blue Star 30 has evolved into the debut stage for the top up and coming talent on the landscape of the sport. As mentioned in previous coverage, the most recent testament to assertion can be found in the nine members of the USA U16 Gold Medal squad who are part of the highly regarded Blue Star 30 alumni roster.
Chicago, D.C., Vegas, Las Palmas all have led up to this week’s Blue Star 30 in Wilmington, Delaware, just a stones throw from Philadelphia. The new 76er’s Fieldhouse is playing host to 44 hand-picked athletes who represent some of the most promising prospects in the 2023, 24 and 25 classes. The roster features players from 27 different states as well as one province in Canada. While we always take listed heights with a grain (shaker) of salt, 25 of those taking the floor do so while laying claim to 6-0 or taller. Hall of Fame coach Dr. Anthony Pappas leads the way once again on the floor with an experienced and talented staff of coaches including the likes of Teri Morrison, Mary Klinger and others.
While the action got underway with two sessions Thursday, Friday’s full schedule saw two groups of athletes claim invitations to the USA Basketball 3×3 National Championships with their wins in a FIBA Certifies USA Basketball Qualifier. Jaloni Cambridge, Essence Cody, Reniya Kelly and Courtney Ogden grabbed one invitation while Aaryn Battle, Breya Cunningham, Mia Davis and Gretchen Dolan punched the other ticket to Colorado Springs.
All the players return to the floor Saturday for another day of instruction and competition and will wrap things up Sunday with a single session before heading home. Below are the 43 athletes in Wilmington this weekend looking to challenge themselves against some their most competitive peers. Check back with Blue Star Media for additional coverage from the fourth annual Blue Star 30.
