Community & Events
Hosted by Coach Saad and Coach Chris
The Gray’s Park Annual 4 v 4 Community Tournament is a one-day basketball event designed to bring players, families, and the local community together through a shared love of the game. Hosted by Gray’s Park Basketball Academy co-founders Coach Saad and Coach Chris, this event focuses on connection, culture, and community as much as competition.
The tournament began in 2020 as the well-known Lazarus Tournament, created by a local Filipino church group to provide a welcoming space for players to compete and connect. Coach Saad and Coach Chris are proud to carry on this tradition, growing it into a Gray’s Park community event while honouring its original spirit.
The day features fast-paced 4-on-4 basketball in a high-energy atmosphere filled with great competition, food, music, and positive energy. Players of all levels are encouraged to compete hard, support one another, and enjoy the game in a community-first environment.
As the tournament continues to grow, future divisions may include:
- Adult Professional and college-level athletes
- Adult Recreational players
- High School athletes
- Elementary age athletes
The Gray’s Park 4 v 4 Community Tournament is a celebration of basketball, culture, and the power of bringing people together on and off the court.
The Gray’s Park Annual Original Cap College Day is a unique basketball event that brings together former college teammates, local players, and the community for a day of competition, connection, and fun. Hosted by Coach Saad and Coach Chris, this event celebrates the lifelong friendships that basketball can create.
On this day, Original Cap College players reunite to play against members of the Gray’s Park basketball community, including youth and adult athletes. The games are fast-paced, competitive, and high-energy, reflecting the passion and commitment that shaped our coaches during their playing days.
While the competition is intense, the atmosphere remains welcoming and inclusive. The day is filled with food, music, laughter, and shared moments that remind everyone why basketball means so much to so many people.
Original Cap College Day is about effort, respect, and showing up fully, both on and off the court. It is a celebration of the game and the relationships it fosters.
The Gray’s Park Annual Summer BBQ is a family-focused event designed to bring players, parents, and community members together in a relaxed and joyful setting. Hosted by Gray’s Park Basketball Academy, this event features a Filipino-style potluck and BBQ, great food, music, dancing, and activities for all ages.
At Gray’s Park, we believe strong development is built on more than basketball skills. It is built on relationships, shared values, and a sense of belonging. The Summer BBQ allows families to connect with coaches, meet other families, and experience the supportive community that defines our academy.
This event reflects the same values that brought Coaches Saad and Chris together through basketball, both on and off the court. It is a day to enjoy good food, build friendships, and strengthen the bonds that make Gray’s Park Basketball Academy more than just a place to train.
Gray’s Park Basketball Court Renovation
Led by Coaches Saad Fadl-Alla and Chris Porteous
Gray’s Park Court has become a true community hub thanks to the dedication of Coach Saad Fadl-Alla and the many players and families who gather there daily. What started as a place to play has grown into a welcoming space where more than 100 community members connect through basketball.
Recognizing the importance of this shared space, a major renovation project was launched to transform Gray’s Park Court into a safe, high-quality play area. Led by the Vancouver Bandits Foundation, local community leader Spencer, and Coach Saad, the project raised approximately $100,000 to bring the vision to life.
The renovation includes new rims and backboards, as well as a six-layer playing surface inspired by the colours of the Philippine flag, honouring the memory of the 2025 Lapu-Lapu Day Festival tragedy. Today, Gray’s Park Court is often compared to iconic outdoor courts and has become a premier destination for basketball in Vancouver.
More than a court, Gray’s Park represents perseverance, pride, and community. It is a place where players of all ages can come together, celebrate the game, and build lasting connections.
We’d Love to Hear From You
At Grays Park Basketball in Vancouver, BC, we’re passionate about shaping the future of young athletes through the game we love. Our youth basketball programs are built on teamwork, discipline, and fun helping players grow their skills while gaining confidence that lasts a lifetime. Whether your child dreams of competing or simply wants to enjoy the sport, we provide the guidance, structure, and encouragement they need to succeed.
Ready to take the next step? Join the Grays Park Basketball community today and experience why families across Vancouver trust us for premier youth basketball training. Contact our friendly team to learn more about registration, schedules, and upcoming programs!