We are once again humbled and grateful following the 2026 Rob Yanders Memorial Basketball Game
“I was impressed,” said Rob Yanders’ wife, Jen Yanders, about the Memorial Game and day last weekend. “I didn’t think that many kids would show up. Three years is a long time.”
We had a wonderful turnout and, unsurprisingly, some great basketball last Saturday for the 2026 Rob Yanders Memorial Game. Rob passed in 2023, meaning this was the third time we have held the game, though there were some emotional hoops played near the time of his service in ‘23 also.
The Basketball Movement, Yanders Law, and We Are United prep families are large and continue growing each year. Particularly since Rob’s passing, we have felt the true weight and breadth of his impact through stories told through tears and laughs.
Rob always wanted a basketball family, and he certainly got one.
We were also impressed with the number of younger players who showed up to play and show respect, understanding the importance of who Rob was not only for hoops but for the entire Midwest community.
There were young players, old players, and (Rob was at it long enough), old-old players with families and kids of their own. Young guys were eager to take a crack at the older guys, and the older guys were more than ready to show them what it means to be a vet of a Rob Yanders-led program.
“The whole thing was about appreciation and love,” Jen says. “I am shocked at how people keep showing up for us. Rob would be proud of what he built. He invested, and they still care. It means the world to me and sets such a great example for my kiddos who get to see it all. It is a blessing.”
Thank you to everyone who came out to remember and to celebrate. What Rob built is still in action today through young, active players who play the right way and through alumni and friends who are leaders and driven, top-notch people in their communities.
Please continue to support Rob’s work – Get yourself or your young ones in the gym for workouts, try out for Yanders Law AAU hoops, follow us and interact on socials, and reach out any time to see how you can get involved. We love you all!
