Dayvon Jones, the visionary founder of the Top of the Hill Classic Corporation, is a dynamic community leader and advocate deeply committed to fostering positive change through basketball. As a Bronx native from the Soundview area, Dayvon launched TOH in 2019 with the aim of offering the youth a brighter future. His passion for the game began in his teenage years at Sackwern Park, where the basketball court became a refuge and a place of comfort. It was here that he and other young people found an escape from their challenging surroundings and a way to stay off the streets.
Growing up in an area once notorious for gang activity and violence, Dayvon’s love for basketball and his community led him to a transformative path. As a young adult, he took on the role of coaching in NYC’s top summer leagues, where he could mentor, support, and inspire young athletes. This experience fueled his ambition to establish the Top of the Hill Classic Corporation right in his own community. Motivated by a desire to share his love for the game and make a positive impact, Dayvon organized tournaments for high school and middle school boys featuring some of New York’s finest players. He also formed community teams, providing local talents with opportunities to showcase their skills and offered employment to young people through the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP).
Top of the Hill serves as a year-round basketball outlet, promoting healthy competition, sportsmanship, and active lifestyles among the youth. It not only entertains but also fosters strong bonds within the community and among team members. The success of these tournaments has drawn people away from the streets and renewed hope within the community.
Seeing himself in the young participants, Dayvon has cultivated a thriving organization that champions positive change and adds meaningful value to both the youth and the broader community. His efforts are empowering a new generation of athletes to achieve greatness. Witnessing the impact of his work, he is now planning to start a girls' league and expand TOH programs to schools nationwide. With unwavering dedication to excellence, Dayvon Jones remains determined, persistent, and focused on continuing his mission through TOH, positively shaping the future of young athletes.