D118, D128 Basketball Teams Take to the Court in 2nd Annual Harlem Showdown

Eighth grade basketball players from two Palos school districts will battle it out at the baskets this weekend, all for a good cause.

In The Harlem Showdown, to be held Saturday, May 2, eighth-grade girls and boys basketball players from District 118’s Palos South will face off against District 128’s Independence Junior High.

The event began as a fundraiser organized by students of former Palos Heights District 128 teacher Maureen Oleskiewicz, who died unexpectedly in May 2014. Oleskiewicz grew up in Palos Heights and attended Navajo Heights and Chippewa elementary schools, as well as Independence and Alan B. Shepard High School. A portion of the proceeds will go toward the District 128 scholarship in the teacher’s name, as well as a portion to a charity of District 118’s choosing. The event is not sponsored by either district.

Admission will be $5 at the door, at Our Lady of the Woods gymnasium. Concessions will be available for purchase.

To Sum It Up:

What: The Harlem Showdown, Charity Basketball Game
When: Sunday, May 2. Doors open at 6 p.m. Games begin at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Our Lady of the Woods, 10731 W. 131st Street, Orland Park