ARIS vs. Harlem Wizards: School Tradition has Secret Strategy

Though over 700 plan to see  staff take on the Harlem Wizards this weekend, mum’s the word when it comes to tactics for either team.

“The Auten Road –All Stars are preparing their strategy for victory against the Harlem Wizards,” Jen Dima, one of the parents organizing the event, said. “They aren’t releasing any details. They are very hush-hush.”

The Auten Road School tradition comes to the court at at Saturday, pitting a team of the school’s teachers against the famed Harlem Wizards. Doors open at 6 p.m., though the game begins at 7 p.m.

“The Harlem Wizards versus the Auten Road All-Stars has been a tradition for several years,” Dima said. “This fun-filled family event is hosted every two years and attracts over 700 families from Auten Road and the Hillsborough Community.”

The teachers volunteer their time—and basketball skills—to participate in the event, Dima said. Meanwhile, over 30 parent volunteers run the event, selling and taking tickets, serving food, running a raffle and coordinating the night.

The event has 1,200 tickets total, meaning about 500 seats to the game remain. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for children if purchased in advance. If tickets are still available, prices at the door will be $14 for adults and $10 for children.

It’s not an event that’s limited to the school’s families, either.

“Why come,” Dima said. “It’s hoops, loops, dancing and a lot of fun. Have some laughs and cheer on your local teachers.”