Honoring a Fallen Hero: The John 3:16 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament

In a poignant tribute to the life of Sgt. Jonathon Hunter, a 2011 graduate of Columbus East High School, the John 3:16 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament brought together his family, friends, and community to celebrate his memory and legacy. The event, organized by Jonathon's father, Mark Hunter, has become an annual tradition, raising funds for a scholarship in Jonathon's name and providing a platform to honor the sacrifices of those who have served their country.

Keeping the Memory of a Fallen Soldier Alive

A Heartfelt Reunion

The tournament, held at Columbus East High School, was a bittersweet gathering for those who knew and loved Jonathon. As his brother, Marcus, and his former teammates took the court, it was a poignant moment to see the camaraderie and shared memories that still bound them together. "It was really cool to see a lot of his friends," said Marcus, a 1996 East graduate. "That last game was against a lot of his friends, so it was just cool to get out here and see those guys. I played here as a high school kid, as well, so it brought back a lot of memories."

Honoring a Fallen Hero

Jonathon Hunter, who had served with the 82nd Airborne Division in Afghanistan, was killed in a suicide attack on August 2, 2017, just 32 days into his deployment. His untimely death at the age of 23 left a profound impact on his family, friends, and the entire community. The tournament, which was first held in 2019, has become a way to keep Jonathon's memory alive and to celebrate the life of a young man who dedicated himself to serving his country.

A Scholarship in Jonathon's Name

The tournament has also become a fundraising event, with the proceeds going towards a scholarship fund established through the Heritage Foundation. This scholarship, in Jonathon's name, will help support the educational aspirations of future generations, ensuring that his legacy lives on and that his sacrifice is not forgotten.

Overcoming Logistical Challenges

Organizing an event of this magnitude is no easy feat, and the Hunters have faced their fair share of challenges. The tournament was canceled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the following years brought logistical issues that had to be overcome. However, the Hunters were determined to revive the event and ensure its continued success.

A Successful Comeback

This year's tournament was a resounding success, with 28 teams and approximately 100 players participating. Despite a few teams not showing up, the organizers were able to quickly adjust the brackets and ensure the event ran smoothly. The tournament featured a 3-point contest, with Mason Reeves, a soon-to-be senior at East, emerging victorious with 12 made 3-pointers. Former Olympian standout Alicia Hopkins, a classmate of Jonathon Hunter, also participated in the contest, making 8 shots from beyond the arc.

A Lasting Legacy

The John 3:16 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament has become more than just a sporting event; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of Jonathon Hunter and a celebration of the values he embodied. As the Hunters continue to organize the tournament, they are ensuring that Jonathon's legacy lives on, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps and to honor the sacrifices of those who have served their country.