JD Hillis Memorial Basketball Tournament Fundraiser

Tacoma and the Extended Community,

My name is Matthew Hillis, and I am the youngest brother of JD Hillis, for whom this memorial basketball tournament was created in 2004. JD tragically passed away on March 13, 1995, from an AVM (brain aneurysm) at the age of 8. Thanks to the incredible support from the Tacoma community and the Al Davies Boys & Girls Club, this tournament has been held annually in his memory for the past 16 years. After a hiatus during COVID-19, and under the guidance and leadership of Sierra Raynor, we are excited to bring the tournament back to Tacoma and the surrounding areas. On behalf of the Hillis family, I want to express our deep gratitude for the ongoing support over the years.

From the stories I’ve heard—and those still shared within our family and among friends—JD’s love for basketball and his connection to the community of Tacoma were rare for anyone, especially a child of his age. In the same vein, another constant in JD’s life was the rare bond he shared with his cousin, Jordan Hillis. In 2023, our family was devastated by the loss of Jordan at the age of 38. The floor at the Al Davies Boys & Girls Club, which bears JD’s name and where this tournament began, was an idea from Jordan and one he helped bring to life. The love and bond between JD and Jordan is something beyond words—it is a connection that shaped the very spirit of this event.

This tournament has been a way to remember JD, and now both JD and Jo, and the lasting bond they shared. It also serves as an opportunity to celebrate their love for the Tacoma community, the sport of basketball, and the lasting impact of the relationships they formed, as well as the connections the tournament will continue to foster in the future.

A large part of this tournament’s story is the apparel that comes with it for the kids. In years past, for each kid who signs up for the event, a t-shirt has been provided along with sweatshirts for the winning teams. Any donation is helpful to make this a reality again this year. Excess funds will be donated directly to the Al Davies Boys & Girls Club. Again, thank you so much for your continued support.

Best,

Matthew