NBASep 26
‘One Tree Hill’ reunion brings Ravens basketball back to Wilmington
Nearly 5,000 fans filled Trask Coliseum as James Lafferty, Chad Michael Murray and fellow cast members reunited for a charity basketball celebration.
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A homecoming for the Ravens
Wilmington welcomed the fictional Tree Hill Ravens back to the court on Sept. 19, with nearly 5,000 fans gathering at UNC Wilmington’s Trask Coliseum for a basketball reunion marking 23 years since the premiere of “One Tree Hill.” James Lafferty and Chad Michael Murray, who portrayed half-brothers Nathan and Lucas Scott, joined castmates including Antwon Tanner, Robbie Jones, Bryan Greenberg and Stephen Colletti. Supporters traveled from as far away as France, Australia and Greenland. Ravens decorations, a mascot and cheerleaders helped recreate the show’s basketball setting. Tyler Hilton performed the national anthem, while the arrival of Lafferty and Murray in their characters’ jerseys drew an enthusiastic reception.
Real basketball behind the drama
The anniversary carried particular meaning because Nathan Scott wore No. 23. His fictional career stretched from high school success through setbacks and an eventual place with the Charlotte Bobcats. Lafferty brought genuine playing experience to the role. He was a 17-year-old varsity MVP at Hemet High School when he auditioned, and the selection process included a basketball matchup against a producer. Before the series changed his plans, he intended to attempt to walk on at Long Beach State. Other cast members also had basketball backgrounds. Paul Johansson, who played Dan Scott, had participated in international tours with the Canadian National Basketball Team.
A reunion with a charitable purpose
The game anchored a broader weekend organized by Friends with Benefit charity events, featuring cast appearances, autograph sessions, a concert and a fashion show. Organizer Rae Agostino drew inspiration from Lafferty’s charity games during the show’s run. Event proceeds benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and other charities selected by participating celebrities. The on-court execution showed some rust, but the reception underscored the lasting connection between the series, its fans and the city where it was filmed.
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