Stop the Violence Basketball Tournament organizers Dwayne Eleazer, right, and Eric Williams, the son of cofounder Larry Williams, who moved out of state this year. Photo: Denise Civiletti

Riverhead’s ‘Stop the Violence’ basketball tournament took place this weekend on the town basketball court at the Osborn/Horton Avenue park.

A team from Queens took home the top prize of $5,000, tournament organizer Dwayne Eleazer said.

It was the 13th annual tournament, which was conceived by Eleazer and cofounder Larry Williams.

The tournament opened with a game between two Riverhead teams: high school students (blue jerseys) took on older men — and won by more than 20 points. Photos: Denise Civiletti

There was a changing of the guard this year, as Williams retired and moved to Georgia. His son Eric Williams stepped up and worked with Eleazer to organize the event.

Eric Williams was a great help, Eleazer said.

“I’m getting ready to pass the torch to the younger guys,” Eleazer said today. “Maybe one more year.”

“Eric and a few other guys have a good heart for what the tournament is about” — promoting peace and understanding by allowing people to get to know one another in a friendly environment.

The double-elimination tournament draws up to 12 teams in a two-day contest. Professional officials oversee the action. The event draws a crowd of spectators to the park each year.


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Denise is a veteran local reporter, editor and attorney. Her work has been recognized with numerous journalism awards, including investigative reporting and writer of the year awards from the N.Y. Press Association. She was also honored in 2020 with a NY State Senate Woman of Distinction Award for her trailblazing work in local online news. She is a founder, owner and co-publisher of this website.Email Denise.