(Courtesy of Hustle & Heart Sports) On Sunday evening March 9, Hustle & Heart Sports hosted the first ever New Jersey vs. New York Girls All-Star Invitational. The game took place at Yeshivat He’Atid’s newly constructed gym in Teaneck, New Jersey. With a packed gym, the event featured standout female basketball players from various yeshivot in the New Jersey and New York area. Based on the breakdown of many different leagues, the players on these teams do not typically get to face off against each other during their regular school basketball seasons.

All coaches were Hustle & Heart staff members who work with these girls during the Hustle & Heart basketball program that runs at the end of the summer. The New Jersey team was coached by Kristen Rainbolt (Moriah coach) and Shaina Gross (RYNJ coach). The New York team was led by Mary Beth Chambers (Flatbush coach). Fans and spectators at home were treated to an exhilarating and entertaining live stream by famed social media personality and sporting announcers “Mexican-cappucino” and Sabon.

The game started with Flatbush’s Rina Fatiha scoring two quick baskets to put the New York team in the lead. The New York girls maintained the lead throughout the game until the final quarter. During the final quarter the New Jersey girls took over the game with tenacious defense, blocks and rebounds. The game ended with New Jersey ahead 59-54. A spectator stated, “There was unreal energy in the building!”

Hustle & Heart Sports End of Summer Girls Basketball Camp is Thursday 8/21- Monday 8/25 and Boys Monday 8/25- Thursday 8/28. It’s for serious basketball players entering 5-12th grade. Use discount code EB80 to get $80 off (expires 3/31) To register: www.hustleheartsports.com/join