With an overall winter season record of 19-3, the 6th Grade Rising Stars Gold proved they can hold court on any court.

The winter season came to a close when the Rising Stars stepped out onto the hardwood to face the Storm of Grand Rapids Michigan in the Joy of the Game President's Day Cup Championship. The Rising Stars rose to the occasion and handed the Storm a 43-38 defeat. The win didn't come easy as the Rising Stars had to step up their defense, execute their offensive attack and make their free throws.

"The Rising Stars formula for success was a balanced mixture of player discipline, strong team chemistry and unselfish play," said Coach Jason Okrzesik.

Earlier this season, the Rising Stars secured two additional championship wins with the Joy of the Game Holiday Challenge and Kessel Heat Winter Shootout. The team also took second place in the Joy of the Game Tipoff Tournament.

The roster consists of players from Glenview, Winnetka, Park Ridge, Highland Park, Northfield and Deerfield. The Rising Stars AAU travel basketball program is managed by Joy of the Game in Deerfield.