Latest news with #JohnDoleva
Yahoo
10-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
‘Difference Makers' awards gala in Holyoke celebrates impactful leaders
HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) – BusinessWest magazine hosted its 17th annual Difference Makers awards gala Wednesday evening in Holyoke. Since 2009, the event—part of the Difference Makers program—puts a spotlight on individuals and organizations who have made a positive impact on the Pioneer Valley. Whether it's through initiatives that improve quality of life, success in business, public service, and education, or even inspiring others to get involved. Eight people were awarded, including John Doleva, president and CEO of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. 'Get involved with something that you feel passionate about—that warms your heart and gets you excited every day,' Doleva says. 'You got to have that sliver of time to get involved in things that impact you and make you feel better about your community and what you are doing in it.' WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
27-03-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Hooplandia unveils wall of 2024 champions at Basketball Hall of Fame
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The champions of Hooplandia 2024 have officially secured their place in basketball history, with their names now displayed at the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. On March 17, organizers of the Northeast's Ultimate 3×3 Basketball Tourney + Festival unveiled a new exhibit honoring last year's top-scoring teams, further cementing the event's growing legacy in the sport. Major events coming to Amelia Park Arena in April and May The exhibit features a Hooplandia-branded Spalding game ball and a striking image of two players locked in a high-intensity matchup. At its center, a commemorative plaque lists the names of 2024's champions—a tradition that will continue each year as new winners etch their names into Hooplandia history. For John Doleva, President and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, the exhibit represents more than just an annual honor—it showcases the power of partnership in advancing the game. 'The power of partnership is key to growing the game of basketball at every level,' Doleva said. 'When Eastern States Exposition and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame come together with a shared vision, we inspire the next generation of basketball players and elevate the game. The growth of Hooplandia is a prime example of how collaboration can fuel progress. Together, we're building a stronger, more inclusive future for the sport we love.' Eastern States Exposition President and CEO Gene Cassidy echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the significance of Hooplandia's inclusion within the Hall of Fame. 'Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame is an authority on the game of basketball at every level,' Cassidy said. 'It is imperative that Hooplandia be recognized among its exhibits. The plaque in the display will be replaced annually as countless more champions earn their place in the sport's very headquarters.' Basketball fans can visit the new Hooplandia exhibit during the Hall of Fame's regular operating hours with a museum admission ticket, available for purchase on their website. Meanwhile, as last year's champions enjoy their place in history, the next wave of competitors is preparing for their shot at glory. Advanced discount registration for Hooplandia 2025 is now open through May 26 with the tournament set to tip off from June 20-22. WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
