On Sunday, February 2, 2025, a thrilling alumni 3-on-3 basketball tournament took place at Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy and Rae Kushner Yeshiva High School in the Zuckerman Family Gymnasium, bringing together 14 teams of spirited competitors from the JKHA/RKYHS alumni community. The event, a fundraiser to support the school’s affordability initiatives, proved to be a resounding success, raising more than $18,000 for the school.

The tournament featured alumni from classes spanning from 2009 to 2021, as well as a few competitive teams made up of parents of current and past JKHA/RKYHS students. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and camaraderie, as former classmates came together for a day of fun, friendly competition, and meaningful support for their alma mater. Additionally, the bleachers were filled with alumni and family members cheering for their favorite teams.

The event was masterminded by three dedicated JKHA/RKYHS alumni, Matthew Stadtmauer, Jeremy Shechter and Jon Lefkovits, all members of the RKYHS Class of 2014. Their vision and commitment to the school made the event not only possible, but incredibly impactful. Their hard work behind the scenes helped ensure that the tournament ran smoothly and was a huge success.

“It was incredible to see so many friends and familiar faces, all coming together to support JKHA/RKYHS,” said Matthew Stadtmauer. “Our school shaped us in so many ways and this tournament is a chance for us to give back to the community that gave us so much.”

The championship game, held at the end of the tournament, was a highly anticipated matchup between two powerhouse teams: Team Fam Squad and Team Chai. After an intense battle on the court, Team Fam Squad emerged victorious, securing the first-place title. Team Chai, despite their fierce determination, took second place. Both teams received special recognition from Jeremy Halpern, JKHA/RKYHS Co-President, and sponsor of the 2025 Edelstein Winners’ Medals.

In a heartfelt ceremony following the game, Halpern presented the winners with the 2025 Edelstein Medals, an award named in honor of his grandparents, Betty and Israel “Dave” Edelstein, z”l. The Edelsteins were dedicated to supporting Jewish education and the state of Israel, along with numerous other Jewish causes.

The Edelstein family has long been dedicated to supporting Jewish education and the state of Israel, along with numerous other Jewish causes.

“Betty and Dave were passionate about education, and they instilled in us a deep love for our Jewish heritage and our community,” Halpern shared during the medal ceremony. “This tournament and these medals are a tribute to them.”

The Edelstein Medal also carries special significance within the Halpern family’s basketball history. Dave’s brother, Monroe “Chili” Edelstein, was a standout basketball player for Long Island University during the 1941-42 season, and he later played for the Trenton Tigers and Scranton Miners in the American Basketball League. In 1950-51, Monroe served as an assistant coach for Yeshiva University’s basketball team, earning a legacy in the sport that Dave cherished.

“Dave loved to watch his brother play,” said Halpern. “And it’s a privilege to continue that connection with the sport today.”

As the event concluded, alumni and families gathered to celebrate both the day’s success and the spirit of community that continues to thrive at JKHA/RKYHS. The alumni tournament is expected to become an annual tradition and it is hoped that it will continue to foster connections, generate support and build upon the values of Jewish education that the school holds dear.

To all those who participated, volunteered, and donated, the event was a reminder of the power of community and the enduring bond that connects the past, present, and future of JKHA/RKYHS. With over $18,000 raised, the impact of this tournament will be felt for years to come.

Special Thanks to:

Event Chairs: Matthew Stadtmauer, Jeremy Shechter, Jon Lefkovits

Championship Teams: Team Fam Squad (1st place) and Team Chai (2nd place)

Medal Sponsor and Dedication: Jeremy Halpern & Family, in honor of Betty and Israel “Dave” Edelstein’s legacy in Jewish education, Israel, and basketball.

A Day of Community, Competition, and Giving Back.