Category: NEWS

  • Oranges Magazine Cover Story

    Oranges Magazine Cover Story

    We’re honored to be featured in the latest issue of The Oranges Magazine in an article highlighting how SOMA Hoops and the SOMA Basketball Boosters are helping redefine youth sports in our community.

    The piece recognizes the incredible growth of our program, our commitment to making basketball accessible and welcoming for every child, and the impact of keeping girls engaged in sports.

    From removing financial barriers to building confidence, leadership and community, the article captures what SOMA Hoops is truly about: creating a place where every kid feels they belong on the court.

    We’re grateful to all of our players, families, coaches, volunteers and supporters who continue to make this possible.

    Read the full article
  • T.J. Whitaker named SEC Liberty Division Coach of the Year

    T.J. Whitaker named SEC Liberty Division Coach of the Year

    In his first season as head coach, Columbia High School’s T.J. Whitaker was named the Super Essex Conference Liberty Division Coach of the Year, recognizing a year that redefined the trajectory of the Columbia boys basketball program.

    Whitaker stepped into the head coaching role ahead of the 2025–2026 season following a 7–18 campaign the year prior. Under his leadership, the Cougars made an epic turnaround to a 19–11 record and captured the Essex County Invitational Tournament championship.

    Columbia also saw individual success among its players, including senior guard Jayvon Rogers, who earned First Team All–SEC Liberty Division honors. The team’s performance reflected both growth and teamwork, hallmarks of Whitaker’s leadership. Congrats, Cougars!

  • “Commitment To Community” Senior Scholarships

    “Commitment To Community” Senior Scholarships

    The SOMA Basketball Boosters are proud to continue our annual Commitment to Community Scholarships, recognizing graduating seniors who embody that special place where community and basketball meet.

    This year, we are proud to recognize Blake Gordon and Ian Bigelow.

    Blake, a dedicated three-year SOMA Hoops referee, camp counselor, and tutor, is known for his reliability, strong communication, and willingness to go above and beyond.

    Ian, a varsity athlete and active volunteer, has made a lasting impact through his work with Buddy Basketball at the South Mountain YMCA, where his consistency, empathy, and genuine connection have helped build confidence and joy in others.

    Congratulations to both recipients, and thank you for the meaningful ways you continue to elevate our community.

  • Park Clean Up with The Memorial Park Trash Pandas

    Park Clean Up with The Memorial Park Trash Pandas

    Connection happens in the everyday moments—on the court, in the park, and when we show up for one another. SOMA Basketball teamed up with the Memorial Park Trash Pandas for a post-Halloween park clean-up.

    Young SOMA Hoopsters and families gathered to pick up candy wrappers and care for the space we all share. Thank you to every volunteer who rolled up their sleeves to keep Memorial Park beautiful and our community strong.

  • Check us out in the News-Record

    Check us out in the News-Record

    Being in the gym together is only part of who we are. Our kids and families show up for this community — cleaning parks, helping local organizations with food insecurity, supporting neighbors, and making sure everyone feels included in the game of basketball.

    Seeing that recognized on the front page of the local News Record just reinforces what we already know: this is bigger than basketball.

    You can check out the article here!

  • SOMA Hoops Featured in Matters Magazine

    SOMA Hoops Featured in Matters Magazine

    In case you missed it, Matters Magazine published a sweeping profile of SOMA Hoops in its annual School Issue, published over the summer.

    Columbia High School junior and budding journalist Esme Krais interviewed league founder Taylor Valentine as well as South Orange director of recreation and cultural affairs Matt Gray, wonderfully highlighting the league’s mission to bring basketball to all kids in our area, as well as ambitious plans for the future.

    You can check out the article here, “Basketball League Fills Void, Builds Community”.