The Youth Basketball League’s 2026 All-Star Weekend brought families, athletes and community leaders together Feb. 6-7 for a celebration of youth sports, mentorship and local legacy.
The two-day event featured a skills competition, All-Star games, an honoring ceremony and a YBL/YBA Alumni Game — all emphasizing community support and the importance of investing in young people.
The events of Feb. 6 kicked off at the old Belair Middle School with the YBL All-Star Skills Competition, hosted by Coach Ryan Hayes. Young participants competed in a three-point contest, a free throw contest and a skills and drills challenge.
“The vibe was definitely in the air,” Hayes said. “Starting Friday night with the skills challenge gave the kids a chance to showcase their abilities and build confidence. It was fun, competitive, and something they’ll remember.”
The event was free and open to the public, drawing parents, supporters and community members for an evening of basketball, food and fellowship.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Feb. 7’s All-Star Games were held at the old Dollarway High School Fieldhouse from noon to 5 p.m., featuring some of Pine Bluff’s top youth players demonstrating teamwork, discipline and sportsmanship.
Coach Kyle Piggie said the weekend highlighted the impact of community involvement when children are put first.
“The YBL All-Star Weekend was a meaningful reminder of the impact a community can have when it comes together with its youth at the center,” Piggie said. “From the youth skills competition to the All-Star games, the excitement and joy from the kids set the tone for the entire weekend and highlighted the importance of investing in the next generation.”
Piggie also praised the alumni games, old school-versus-new school matchups and the honoring ceremonies for their role in connecting past and present.
The weekend’s most emotional moment came during the Honoring Ceremony, where YBL recognized eight community leaders for more than 20 years of service dedicated to Pine Bluff’s youths. Honorees included Ray Barnes, Albert J. King Jr., Terrell Clark, Clayborne Cosen III, Antonio Scott, Yolanda M. Scott, Spike Scott and Dale Russell.
Yolanda Scott reflected on her 23 years of coaching in league and AAU basketball.
“I truly love the children of Pine Bluff and have always wanted to help in any way I can,” Scott said. “Stepping away from coaching will be hard, but as a cancer survivor, this decision is necessary and beneficial for my health. I am forever grateful for the journey and the love.”
Scott also commended YBL Founder Coach Lucas Armstrong’s leadership and commitment to recognizing community contributors.
The ceremony also included a tribute to Taariq “Riq” Conner, whose legacy resonated deeply with attendees and his family. Conner was an athlete at Watson Chapel High School who died in a vehicle accident in October.
“What took place was more than a ceremony — it was a reflection of the love, impact, and legacy Riq left behind through basketball and through his life,” said Conner’s mother, Lakesha Thomas. “Seeing his jersey and his number was both heartbreaking and beautiful. It reminded me that while my son is no longer physically here, his spirit continues to inspire, lead, and live on through others.”
Thomas expressed sincere gratitude to Armstrong and YBL for honoring her son with care and intention.
Mayor Vivian Flowers proclaimed Feb. 7-8 as “Pine Bluff YBL Weekend,” honoring the league’s ongoing work with young people.
“Investing in our youth is more than funding programs,” Flowers said. “It’s about giving our time, sharing our knowledge, and showing up to pour into the next generation.”
The YBL/YBA Alumni Game closed out the weekend, bringing former players back to the court in a symbolic moment that highlighted the long-term impact of structured youth programs.
Since its founding in 2017, YBL has served more than 1,000 youth athletes through competition, mentorship and leadership opportunities, organizers said.
“This weekend was about celebrating our youth and honoring those who built the foundation,” Armstrong said. “When we invest in young people, we invest in the future of our city.”
