Mt. Zion slam dunks True Vine

Ama church dribbles to the top, knocks off 4-year champions

Mt. Zion Baptist Church of Ama are Christian basketball champions. The team took first place at the annual tournament where nine area churches participated. The group also knocked four-year winner True Vine Baptist Church of Hahnville into second place. S

After a four-year championship run, True Vine Baptist Church of Hahnville handed over their title as local Christian basketball champions to Mt. Zion Baptist Church of Ama.

First Baptist Church of Paradis and Antioch Baptist Church of Des Allemands worked hand in hand with other churches to present the tournament on Saturday, Aug. 15 with the theme “We are our Brother’s Keeper.”

The day-long event featured a 9-team competition along with raffles, raffles, door prizes, food and drinks.

Ama’s Mt. Zion Baptist Church took first place in the tournament followed by True Vine of Hahnville in second - who had won the title four years in a row. Fifth African Baptist Church of St. Rose placed third.

Other competing teams were St. Luke Baptist of Houma, Antioch Baptist Church of Des Allemands, Mt. Airy Baptist Church of Boutte and Mt. Calvary Baptist of Marrero.

“We had really great turnout this year,” said Donnie Hills of First Baptist in Paradis. “We hold this event each year as part of our scholarship program and to help bring youths together in a positive way.

“We’re saving souls around the parish and our theme will be in place throughout the year.”

The tournament celebrated its Golden Anniversary, and True Vine Baptist Church of Hahnville hoped to retain their title for a fifth year.

“The teams are all ready looking forward to next year,” added Hills. “And Mt. Zion is looking for a championship then.”