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ALTON — The Alton All-Stars Basketball Association is expanding its reach this fall 2025, offering local youth the opportunity to compete on Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) basketball teams. Founded and developed by John Smith, the program has grown to include more than 50 players, starting in first grade through the grade school level.
Practices take place at the Catholic Children’s Home Gym, a facility made available through the support of Rodney Smith, who has allowed the teams to use the space for the past two years. This access has been crucial to the program’s ability to train and host games. John Smith said he is so thankful to Rodney Smith and the Catholic Children's Home for what they have done for the program.
John Smith and all those affiliated with the Alton youth program are true Difference Makers in their community.
The coaching staff includes Mikkell Lumpkins for first and second graders; Kevin Caldwell, a former Alton High School standout and second-leading scorer, for fourth grade; Duane Fox, Lee Bennett and John Smith for fifth grade; and Brian Merrifield for sixth grade. Lane Bennett, a well-known regional basketball coach, also assists with coaching duties. Bennett’s involvement is seen as a valuable asset to the program’s development.
John Smith said Bennett was his head coach when he played, and he loves having him be one of his assistants with his deep understanding of basketball and developing young players.
The teams recently participated in their first tournament of the season, with the fifth-grade squad reaching the championship game and finishing in second place. Smith noted the positive performances of all teams during the event.
Community involvement plays a significant role in the association’s growth. Dianca Lacey serves as team mom, assisting with game paperwork and coordination with the Litty All-Stars AAU program. Sponsorship support comes from Andy Hightower and Bobby Collins, both longtime Alton community advocates who help secure tournament opportunities. Jack Cox and Drell Morgan have contributed by sponsoring game bags for the players.
Smith expressed gratitude for the community’s support, saying, “I appreciate the community for being involved and letting us mentor these young men; I am so thankful to Alton, Illinois.” He emphasized the program’s goal to continue expanding youth basketball in Alton and preparing players for middle and high school competition while encouraging academic achievement. John Smith said he believes one day many of the players in his All-Star League will be Redbirds' high school stars. The Alton High program has grown by leaps and bounds with head coach Dylan Dudley, who has implemented a completely different positive approach to Alton High basketball. The Redbirds should be one of the area's best boys teams this year under Coach Dudley.
The Alton All-Stars should only be a complement to the future of Alton High basketball.
From an initial group of 14 players last year, the program has grown steadily, now encompassing teams across six grade levels with more than 50 participants.
Smith’s vision includes further growth and increased investment in the program to benefit the Alton community.
For more information, contact John Smith at 618-818-8275.
If you have a Difference Makers idea, e-mail news@riverbender.com with a photo and information or text (618) 623-5930.
