B.J. Gonzales Tourney in Sixth Year
by Dave Kavanaugh/ Las Vegas Optic
As it turned out, the fatal crash also inspired an annual tradition that lures hoops aficionados to town while also benefitting a worthy cause -- scholarships for students at West Las Vegas and Pecos high schools, both of which Gonzales attended.
This year's B.J. Gonzales Memorial Tournament tips off at 6 p.m. Friday at
The tournament is organized primarily by Benedict Gonzales, B.J.'s father.
"I think, really, that God put this together," he said. "The day after my son's accident, our pastor came to visit us. And God laid this on my mind. This was a way to honor him."
Right from the start, the tourney was a hit. Beginning with friends and acquaintances, each of the 12 teams quickly filled with players. Logistics like the facility worked out. Even the officiating crew fell into place with no fuss. Victor Sanchez, then head of the
Over the years, a number of northern
Off the court, there's been help from folks like Felix and Josie Valencia, who've helped with the concession stand. Recently, Peter Sena set up a three-point shootout as a sideshow to the tourney itself. There's even been talk of adding a slam dunk competition.
"It's been taking off," Gonzales marveled. "Most of the kids have been in it from the start. We have no trouble filling up the teams. Usually by the second week of January, we fill up."
"A lot of them are people who knew (B.J.). "All his friends. To me, it's like an unseen bond they have. It's really humbling ... It's quite a tribute. My son really loved basketball. And there's a real spiritual vibe to it. I can't get over how it's unified his friends."
The tournament has raised an estimated $25,000 over its six-year history. Entry fee per team has doubled from $100 to $200, and it's been suggested -- by team participants, no less -- that the fee be increased, thus growing the scholarship pot. Some discussion of expanding the tournament field to include more teams has also occurred, though Gonzales said he's comfortable for now with the 12-team bracket -- and with the intimate venue of the middle school gym, which keeps the spectators close to the players and the action.
On a personal note, Gonzales said his son's death awakened his spiritual side and made him aware of how important it is to cherish life and to help others in whatever way is possible. The tournament and its philanthropic cause is a part of that.
"With his passing," he said, "my son saved my life. It took me to a place where I should have been all along. It opens you up and makes you want to make better whatever you can, sharing whatever you can what God has blessed you with."
The early days of the B.J. Gonzales Tournament were emotional for the whole family. "The first couple of years, it was hard," Benedict said. "I still shed tears. But now it's tears of joy. You see the impact this young man had on people. You visualize him out there."
"Out of every tragedy, God allows so much good," he said. "It's our job to embrace that."
