2nd annual rising stars showcase march 28 2026
HAYWARD, Calif. – March 28, 2026 — The Surviving Struggles
Foundation successfully hosted its Second Annual Bay Area Rising Stars
Showcase at Tennyson High School on Saturday, March 28, bringing
together some of the most talented middle school and high school
student-athletes from Oakland and Hayward for a day of competition,
community, and opportunity.
The showcase featured both young men and young women
competing in a series of basketball games designed to celebrate athletic
achievement while providing student-athletes with a positive and
memorable experience at the conclusion of the school year. The event
marked a significant milestone for the organization, as it was the first
year that high school athletes were added to the showcase alongside the
middle school participants.
The competition between Oakland and Hayward produced
exciting matchups throughout the day. When the final buzzer sounded,
Oakland emerged victorious, winning four of the five games played during
the event. Players from both cities displayed impressive skill,
sportsmanship, and determination, giving fans, families, and community
members plenty to cheer about.
With the addition of high school divisions this year,
organizers believe the Bay Area Rising Stars Showcase is continuing to
grow into one of the region's premier youth athletic events.
"This year's event showed us that we have something
special," said members of the Surviving Struggles Foundation. "The
energy in the gym, the support from the families, and the talent on the
court proved that there is a real need for events like this in our
communities."
The Bay Area Rising Stars Showcase was created to provide
student-athletes with an opportunity to be recognized for their hard
work while encouraging them to stay focused on academics, leadership,
and personal development. The event also serves as a platform for young
athletes to build relationships, gain exposure, and compete against some
of the best talent in the Bay Area.
Following the event, organizers sat down with Surviving
Struggles Foundation Founder Jabari Scott to discuss the vision behind
the showcase and the future of the organization.
"We put this event together so that the youth have
something to look forward to at the end of the school year," Scott said.
"Our goal is to create positive opportunities for young people,
celebrate their accomplishments, and give them experiences they will
remember for years to come."
Scott also hinted that the Bay Area Rising Stars Showcase is only the beginning of what the foundation has planned.
"This is not the only event that we will be doing," Scott
added. "We are currently looking into some other things that I can't
speak on right now, but I encourage everyone to stay connected and be on
the lookout for what we have in store next."
Parents, coaches, and community leaders praised the event
for creating a positive environment where student-athletes could
compete, learn, and represent their cities with pride. The showcase also
highlighted the importance of community partnerships and youth
development initiatives throughout the Bay Area.
As the Surviving Struggles Foundation continues to expand
its impact, the success of the Second Annual Bay Area Rising Stars
Showcase demonstrates the organization's commitment to empowering youth
through sports, education, mentorship, and community engagement.
With strong participation, competitive games, and
overwhelming community support, the future looks bright for the Bay Area
Rising Stars Showcase as it continues to grow and inspire the next
generation of leaders and athletes.
