"Love Hoops was never just about competition.
It was about providing access. Creating safe space. Building futures."
Love Hoops was founded in 2019 by Roudy "Movez" St. Fleur — a local basketball influencer with over twenty years of experience coaching and mentoring kids throughout New York City. Built from a passion for the game and an even deeper passion for community, Love Hoops was created to be more than an organization — it was a platform.
In response to the lack of structured outdoor activities and positive creative outlets for youth — especially during the height of COVID-19 — Love Hoops was created to provide a safe, empowering environment where young people could express themselves, compete, and grow.
In February 2020, Love Hoops launched what would become one of the best co-ed pick up basketball experiences in New York City — the Love Hoops Open Run. Twice a week, the best players NYC had to offer showed up: amateur athletes, local college standouts, international professionals, social media influencers, and creative tastemakers — bonding not just over basketball but over the shared perspectives of their lives.
Once New York City lifted its curfew for outdoor activities, Roudy partnered with Kwame Hinds to host a community showcase — bringing together their complementary skills and resources to create something the city hadn't seen before.
The first Love Hoops tournament, held on August 8, 2020, became more than just a basketball event. It was a symbol of resilience. It represented hope, structure, and positive production during uncertain times. As communities navigated a return to social interaction, Love Hoops remained deeply committed to health and safety — implementing a model called "Active Distance."
Love Hoops actively sought partnerships with local businesses and residents for sponsorship support — helping fund logistics, uniforms, and championship awards. By working together with reputable community partners, they built a platform that pushed the next generation toward leadership, exposure, and long-term success.
For the past several years, Love Hoops has partnered with the Brooklyn Children's Museum and One Crown Heights Foundation to provide free basketball skills development to young Black and Jewish kids and adults throughout the year — leading up to their huge annual festival in August.
Partnering with the Williamsburg Community Center continues Love Hoops' mission of community building and contributing toward NYC's health and wellness goals. The organization's experience creating platforms for positive social experiences extends throughout all five boroughs — reaching a diverse group of individuals who are looking for quality basketball and real community.
Roudy "Movez" St. Fleur establishes Love Hoops in New York City with over 10 years of coaching and mentorship experience.
The inaugural co-ed pickup run begins — twice a week, welcoming the best NYC has to offer. Quickly earns a reputation as one of the city's best indoor coed runs.
The first Love Hoops tournament launches August 8, 2020 with the pioneering "Active Distance" safety framework. A symbol of resilience.
Love Hoops adapts with virtual skill development workshops featuring local pro athletes, hip-hop artists, and footwear designers from Nike and Adidas.
Partners to provide free basketball skills development to young Black and Jewish kids and adults throughout the year leading up to their annual August festival.
Continuously working with schools, organizations, and brands to build quality, impactful programs and activations for all.
A two-day basketball event hosting Middle School and High School games in communities throughout New York City — driven by a commitment to providing positive, inclusive opportunities for young people in underserved neighborhoods.
@lovehoopsny