By Dawn Mills Campbell
A newly formed travel basketball team is asking for community support as it prepares for an opportunity to compete on the national stage.
Steadfast Elite, a youth travel basketball program founded by Kevin Branch, Jr. of Columbia, has been invited to participate in the Uncle Drew Circuit, a national basketball circuit created by NBA star Kyrie Irving. The invitation places the team among elite programs from across the country. “This opportunity is bigger than basketball,” Branch said. “It’s about giving our kids exposure, discipline and the confidence to compete at the highest level.”
Steadfast Elite was created to provide young athletes with elite development while emphasizing loyalty, hard work, passion and dedication.
The program focuses on both athletic growth and character development, and helping players mature on and off the court.
“Our mission is to develop complete athletes,” Branch said. “That means accountability in the classroom, leadership on the court and responsibility in the community.”
Participation in the Uncle Drew Circuit offers players national exposure, high-level competition and opportunities to be seen by college recruiters and coaches, but participation comes with significant financial costs. Because the costs associated with competing nationally present a challenge for a new program, Branch recently launched a GoFundMe fundraiser to help cover expenses related to national competition. So far, the campaign has raised only a
small portion of its goal.
Funds raised through the GoFundMe campaign will be used to cover tournament and circuit entry fees, travel expenses, team equipment, gym rentals and other essential costs. “These are basic expenses required just to participate,” Branch said. “Without community support, we risk missing out on an opportunity that could change these kids’ lives.”
Branch said Steadfast Elite’s athletes represent more than just a basketball team. “When they step on the court, they’re representing their families and the community that raised them,” he said. “This is about pride, opportunity and showing what our young people are capable of.”
Branch is encouraging community members, busi-
nesses and organizations to support the fundraiser by donating or sharing the campaign. “Every contribution matters,” he said. “Even sharing the link helps us get closer
to our goal.” Donations to support Steadfast Elite’s participation in the national circuit can be made through the team’s GoFundMe page at https://gofund.me/f791d955d