Competition took a backseat to the basketball experience at the recent Winter Storm Classic, hosted by the GSBA (Greater Sudbury Basketball Association) earlier this month.

Bringing together a quartet of U11/U12 teams from northern Ontario, tournament organizer Martin Nadeau ensured that every squad enjoyed the opportunity to take part in a game staged on the homecourt of the Sudbury Five at the Old Barn on Elgin Street.

As well, discounted tickets allowed for the youngsters from Timmins, Parry Sound and South Muskoka to take in some professional hardcourt action, all while honing their skills with some friendly games in a format that featured no playoff encounters.

"Hopefully in the years to come, we can grow this event to attract more teams from the north and help promote basketball in Northern Ontario," suggested Nadeau. "It's a start," added the long-time educator who also made a point of thanking the Five organization for their support with the event.

Following are game scores along with a few of the top scorers from the games that were contested:

Parry Sound Stingers 42 - Kruz Adams (10)
Timmins Selects 22 - James Davis (6)

Sudbury Storm 44 - Orlando Munoz (15); Kaesen Adair (12)
South Muskoka Breakers 26

South Muskoka Breakers 40 - Michael Bebenic (12)
Timmins Selects 21 - Callum Seguin (12)

Sudbury Storm 35 - Mason Kamuntu; Mérick Nadeau; Kaesen Adair; Willem Timusk - all with seven
Parry Sound Stingers 22 - Sean Kelly (8)

Sudbury Storm 47 - Médric Raymond (14) - every Storm player scored at least one point
Timmins Selects 11 - Jackson Godfrey (4)

Parry Sound Stingers 33 - Rylan Ruggles (8)
South Muskoka Breakers 22 - Hendrix Hamilton-Barnes (6)