DURHAM, N.C. — The sound of basketballs dribbling and sneakers squeaking is music to the ears of Marcus Manning.

One of his favorite holiday gifts is Christmas basketball tournaments.

“I grew up in St. Louis, and there’s a lot of great holiday basketball showcases and tournaments there," Manning said. "So to be a part of this and Durham Sports Commission to be a part of this is fun. It’s unique, it’s special and it’s fun.” 

The three-day tournament hosted by the Durham Sports Commission welcomed teams from across North Carolina, and even from Maryland and Florida.

A lot of hard work goes into an event like this, but to Manning, the final product is worth it. 

“To see the fan engagement but to also see the participation on the court was great," Manning said. "It’s some great high school basketball.” 

In its second year, the hoops tournament is bringing a good cause with it. 

Proceeds go toward the One Team, One Durham Fund, an initiative that supports youth sports development with grants. 

“We know there is a divide between who can afford to participate and who can’t so we thought this would be a great opportunity for us as a sports commission to really dive into that space and invest in the youth in Durham," Manning said. 

Many athletics budgets are tight these days, so for coaches like Antonio King, hearing the tournament is helping youth sports is a blessing.

“I believe sports are a key metric and a key model that our kids stay active and stay out of trouble," King said. "I’m always open for sports, so that’s a great opportunity and that’s one of the reasons I’m here supporting.” 

As Manning and his team look to continue the annual tradition, he says they have one motivating goal in mind. 

“We want everyone to have an opportunity," Manning said. "Regardless of ZIP code, we want every child in Durham to have an opportunity to participate.”