The 2026 Lehigh Valley Senior All-Star Classic netted $25,000 for Via, the largest contribution yet.
For more than half a century, one event has united the Lehigh Valley basketball community in a celebration of talent, sportsmanship, and service. Now in its 51st year, the Lehigh Valley Senior All-Star Classic, formerly the LARC/Via Basketball Tournament, remains one of the region’s most cherished athletic traditions. What began as a local showcase has grown into a community movement that elevates standout high school seniors, honors basketball legends, and fuels a mission much larger than the game.
Each spring, the Classic brings together the area’s top high school players for an unforgettable day of competition. Equally meaningful are the Lehigh Valley Basketball Hall of Fame inductions, recognizing athletes, coaches, and contributors who shaped the sport’s rich local history. Families, fans, alumni, and supporters fill the stands, celebrating what makes Lehigh Valley basketball special.
What truly distinguishes the Classic is its heart. For decades, the event supported Via, helping individuals and families living with disabilities. In recent years, a volunteer committee led by former All‑Star, coach, and Hall of Famer Traci Cyr has strengthened that commitment in extraordinary ways. Under her leadership, proceeds donated to Via have exceeded $84,000, reflecting the generosity of sponsors, volunteers, and Traci’s tireless dedication.
Traci and the committee also added four annual basketball clinics for individuals with and without disabilities. High school students and coaches volunteer to teach skills and drills, helping athletes grow in a positive, supportive setting.
For Traci, the mission is personal. Nearly 20 years ago, the Classic began hosting special‑needs clinics, an experience she calls one of the event’s most meaningful traditions. Senior All‑Stars volunteer their time, forming connections with the individuals and families who benefit from the tournament’s support. “These clinics bring joy not only to the participants, but to everyone involved,” she shared.
Behind the event’s long‑running success is a friendship rooted in the sport. Traci has known fellow Hall of Famer Mary Lisicky since childhood. Mary, now a Via Foundation board member, helped connect Traci to Via, deepening the Classic’s philanthropic purpose. Though both prefer the spotlight stay on the event, their leadership is woven into its impact. “For the community, especially in the Lehigh Valley where local sports matter, the event is a unifier,” Mary said. “It brings together schools, fanbases, coaches, and younger players. Our basketball tradition is rich, and reconnecting with people year after year is something I love.”
The Senior All‑Star Classic thrives today because of a dedicated committee, volunteer officials and coaches, and a community that shows up to celebrate its players and support Via.
The 51st Classic, held March 22, 2026, stands as a testament to tradition and to the belief that a shared love of basketball can create lasting impact.
Thank you, Traci, Mary, and the Lehigh Valley Senior All‑Star Classic Committee: Doug Snyder, Glenn Noack, Jose Medina, Bob Huffstutler, Donna Kennedy, Sydney Sloane, Tiffany Gallis, Jeremy Cox, Harry Morra, Anne Wenninger, and Jack Cyr.
