The Merrimack Valley YMCA will offer Jr. Celtics basketball leagues for young players from pre-K through high school at three branch locations: Andover, Lawrence, and Methuen. Jr. Celtics serves as the official youth basketball platform of the Boston Celtics. They created this program to give kids basketball experiences by treating each child like an MVP and rewarding players for self-improvement and teamwork.
“The official youth basketball platform of the 18-Time World Champion Boston Celtics, Jr. Celtics provides overwhelmingly positive youth basketball experiences by treating each child like an MVP, rewarding players for self-improvement and teamwork, building a future generation of champions and lifelong basketball fans,” YMCA leaders said, according to 97.9 WHAV. “The pairing of the youth-focused Jr. Celtics program with the Y’s history and commitment of creating meaningful opportunities for youth to participate in sports is a natural fit,” the Y added.
YMCA officials said the partnership fits their mission of creating opportunities for youth who want to participate in sports, including boys and girls.
The Jr. Celtics season will include several special events, including a Draft Day signing event before games begin. There will also be in-season clinics with Jr. Celtics staff, awards days, and each participant will receive an authentic Jr. Celtics jersey.
Special events and dates include:
Saturday, Nov. 21: Kickoff and Draft Day – location TBDSaturday, Jan. 9: Mid-Season Clinic and Picture Day – held at each branchSaturday, Feb. 27: Award Ceremony and Kimball Classic – location TBD
Games and practices run from Nov. 21, 2026, through Feb. 27, 2027. Financial assistance is available, and families who need help with registration costs can apply for aid through the Merrimack Valley YMCA website.