TIMES SQUARE (September 18, 2025) – For the third year in a row, the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) took over the spotlight in Times Square, New York. This past weekend, AAU 3-on-3 Basketball took center stage for the 2025 AAU Times Square Takeover.

The AAU, in partnership with the New York Police Department (NYPD), hosted 125 youth 3-on-3 basketball teams from 10 different states for the sold-out event on September 13 and 14. In the “Crossroads of the World,” the bright lights were shining on the fast-paced action of AAU. 

This premier two-day event is part of the AAU Cares – Urban Initiative Program, which strives to provide participation opportunities for historically underserved youth. Boys and girls from 3rd grade through 12th grade joined in on this unique opportunity and showcased their skills on a major stage for all to see. The AAU and the NYPD have worked together to grow this event and make sports more accessible to all athletes. 

The Games

This year saw the biggest turnout yet. Eight (8) courts were set up in the heart of the city, on Broadway and 45th – 48th Street Pedestrian Plaza. Forty-two (42) teams earned AAU medals for finishing first or second in their division.

With games happening nonstop throughout the day, crowds began to flood the area and line the streets to take it all in. 

The Media

Local and National News channels were on hand to share the unique experience through their camera lenses as well. Fox’s newest anchor, Kevin Corke, as well as New York’s local ABC, Fox, NBC, and Spectrum News outlets joined us to interview AAU President, Jo Mirza, NYPD Community Affairs Assistant Commissioner, Alden Foster, and former New York Knicks superstar, Allan Houston. 

We were also joined by a social media megastar in the basketball world, and trick shot artist, Tristan Jass. T-Jass was on site on Saturday to enjoy the games, take some pictures with the athletes, spread the word about anti-bullying, and of course, hit a crazy trick shot! 

AAU Cares - Urban Initiative

AAU Youth Basketball Advisory Council (YBAC) members, and former New York Knicks starts, Allan Houston and Jerome “Junk Yard Dog” Williams, stopped by to share their wisdom with some of the athletes. 

The AAU YBAC is comprised of key AAU Alumni and members of the basketball world that are dedicated to the development and growth of basketball at the youth level. 

Williams was on-site not only to watch his son play in the event, but also to share his story through his book, R.O.L.E. Player. With the AAU Reads Initiative, Williams was giving away signed copies of his book and sharing his wisdom through life lessons and strategies on success, while encouraging others to maximize their opportunities.

This event also provided a platform for “Buckets Over Bullying,” a nonprofit organization dedicated to stopping cyberbullying through education, advocacy, and legal help. Tristan Jass is a board member and ambassador for their brand and was able to share his message with athletes at the event. He shared his story and helped others become aware of the dangers of cyberbullying. 

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Thank You

Thank you to everyone who made this event possible! The volunteers, the athletes, the NYPD, and everyone in between. With your help, we can continue to provide Limitless Opportunities for all of our athletes!