For YMCA member Marvin Evans, Youth Basketball League (YBL) Saturdays at the Y are about more than just the numbers on the scoreboard. For him, the true value lies in sharing a love of the game that has been passed down through three generations of his family.

“Basketball has always been important in our family,” Marvin said. “Back in the 60s, both my dad and my uncle Roger Powell played at the YMCA, and I’ve been around the Y since I was a kid. As I grew older I went into the army and when I came back home and had kids, I wanted to get them involved in the game as well.”

Marvin, who serves as a volunteer coach for his son Cannon’s high school division team, said that the Y makes a significant impact in the community because it opens the door to players of all abilities.

“Not every kid is going to have the skill set to play on a high school team or in college, but everyone can play at the YMCA. And that’s really important to me,” he said. “I played at Joliet Central during my freshman and sophomore years of high school, but didn’t make the cut my junior and senior years. The good thing was I could always go to the Y and play basketball. That’s where I developed all my skills. Now I’m helping kids in similar situations.”

Marvin said that YMCA basketball not only keeps players like Cannon active on the court, but it builds character skills that will help in any facet of life. 

“Cannon really enjoys being a part of the team and I think that’s what keeps him going. It has really helped build his confidence. And I’ve seen with all the players, everyone out here is laughing and learning to play as a team,” he said. 

Cannon said the highlight of his experience in YBL was a deep run in last season’s league tournament.

“I remember getting third place in the tournament last year. We were short a few players and still made it that far. It was a lot of fun,” he said.

Ultimately, Marvin said he’s most proud to play a role in creating a positive community space for youth.

“I always see the joy in the kids when they are here at the Y. It’s always a place with smiles. It’s a family environment where kids can interact and be themselves.”

The Y would like to thank the Evans family for their continued support of the Y.

If you would like to sign up for the upcoming YBL season, now is the perfect time! Families who register by October 6 using promo code YBLSALE2025 will save $10! Learn more and register today by clicking here.

If you are interested in serving as a volunteer coach this winter, you can sign up to volunteer by clicking here.