Coach Marty on the Anniversary Tournament

The 50th Annual Betsuin Basketball Tournament takes place March 2-3, 2024.

The last Betsuin Basketball Tournament was played in 2020, a week before the world shut down due to Covid 19. The 50th Annual Betsuin Basketball Tournament returns this year (March 2-3, 2024) and coincides with another temple milestone — the 125th anniversary of the Buddhist Church of Sacramento.

Marty Matsuda, one of the tournament co-chairs, has been a part of this event for 13 years since his son was a player. Marty also coached SBC C and B division teams for many years.

Here is Coach Marty’s reflection:

What is most special about this to me is that many of the players that I had coached are now young parents who have kids in the program today. Being part of this cycle is pretty special.

As co-chair of the tournament, I enjoy communicating and meeting with the coaches and parents of the visiting teams. They are so happy that we have brought back the tournament and allowing their kids the experience of participating in these games.

It's always a rewarding experience for me. I will say that church basketball created lasting friendships that I still have today.