The stench of perspiration pervades the nostrils upon entering the gym on a Tuesday evening throughout the spring. The squeak of shoes on the gym floor, along with occasional grunts or even shouting demonstrates the intensity of the games. Men, children and boys battle in a 3 on 3 basketball league hosted in Fresno Christian’s gym.

The city league was founded by FC junior varsity boys’ basketball coach Mike Neal and began March 19. Varsity coach Christopher Schultz continues to provide assistance and support for the league whose purpose is to raise funds for the basketball program. Playoffs for the league will begin May 28.

Many high school players play in the league, with players from Buchanan, Clovis West, Clovis High, Fresno Christian, and San Joaquin Memorial in the league. Several Fresno Pacific University players also play in the league, and the variety creates a challenging playing environment, according to participants in the league.

“The wide scope of high school and other players helps,” Jon Steele, ’03, said. “It is a good way to measure yourself against area talent.”

There is a broad range of players, ranging in not only talent but also age. “The age factor is huge,” Sam Babcock, ’02, a participant in the league said. “It ranges from a player who is only 13 to players who are in their 50s. That creates a huge challenge.”

Many older, former players and coaches also play in the league and this creates varied play, according to Babcock. “The diversity is good, because it makes the level of play high,” Babcock said. “There are some very good basketball players, some not-so-good players, and this difference makes for good competition.”

Players in the league participate for many different reasons. Some play to improve their game. “I play to stay in shape during baseball season,” Steele said. “And the league provides me with a place to hone my skills in the off-season.”

Others play strictly for the fun or simply to stay in shape. “I like getting out there and running around,” teacher Robert Foshee, another participant in the league, said. “It’s all in good clean fun.”

The league costs $125 per team, and each team will play 10 games. Games are on Tuesday evenings, and the league will continue next year. Watch for announcements in The Feather for information on how to sign up next spring.