NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The Fat Boy Basketball League in Nashville isn't your typical recreational sports organization.
With a championship game decided by just one point, the league offers intense competition while focusing on something much more important: health and community.
"We focus on body fat percentage which will help with blood pressure," said Coach Dub Williams.
Williams' team, the Northside Celtics, claimed the league championship on Sunday with a narrow 47-46 victory over the defending champion Showtime Lakers at Goodlettsville Middle School.
But the scoreboard only tells part of the story. The league's participants track their health metrics together, creating accountability and support.
"Huge, huge. We kinda check in on each other," said Williams.
Joe Major, the league's commentator, explains that community building extends beyond the basketball court.
"Doing junior leagues, other community based events, give aways as far as clothing, food drives, toys for those in need," said Major.
The games also provide powerful moments for families, as children cheer on their fathers from the sidelines.
"It gives you that spark as a kid to say hey you can do it too," said Major.
After securing the championship victory, Coach Williams reflected on what makes the league special.
"That's my favorite part, the brotherhood," said Williams.
Through its focus on health metrics, family involvement, and community service, the Fat Boy Basketball League continues to make a positive impact in Nashville both on and off the court.
Have you been looking for a sports league that combines competition with health accountability? Email Kim.Rafferty@NewsChannel5.com to share your story about community-focused sports programs making a difference in Nashville, or to learn how you can get involved with the Fat Boy Basketball League.
This story was reported by Kim Rafferty and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Kim and our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
Happy Birthday to the YMCA of Middle TN. They just celebrated their 150th anniversary! A lot has changed with the Y over the years. I have personally seen some of that firsthand when I was a long-time board member at the Northwest Family Y and part of their Black Achievers Program. Forrest Sanders has a look back.
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