About

About the HEART Classic Basketball Tournament

The HEART Classic Basketball Tournament is more than a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of resilience, legacy, and community. Hosted by the Yellow Heart Committee (YHC) in partnership with the Richmond Police Activities League (PAL), this two-day event on March 29-30, 2025, honors the legacy of Orlando “OJ” Johnson, a beloved coach, mentor, former RPD Detective, and father. OJ was unfortunately diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in April of 2024 and this event will ensure his dreams of having a community center for young athletes will come to fruition.

A Special Tribute to Orlando “OJ” Johnson

In 2024, OJ was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer and given 0-6 months to live. Despite this, his enduring spirit and passion for uplifting others have remained unwavering. OJ’s dream was to coach young athletes in underserved communities, creating opportunities for mentorship and growth through sports.

This tournament is a surprise tribute to OJ, offering the community he loves so deeply a chance to celebrate his life and contributions while raising funds for a lasting legacy: a mental health-focused community center in Richmond.

Why This Matters

For N’dea Johnson, the founder of YHC, this fundraiser is deeply personal. After experiencing a traumatic assault that led to temporary paralysis due to Conversion Disorder, N’dea’s father became her greatest source of support during her recovery. His unwavering belief in her ability to heal inspired her to found YHC in 2019.

The Yellow Heart Committee was born from N’dea’s vision to address the gaps in mental health resources for trauma survivors. Over the years, YHC has grown into a nationally recognized nonprofit, advocating for policy change, hosting community resource fairs, and providing direct support to vulnerable populations.

The Vision

OJ and N’dea’s dreams have now converged. The funds raised through this tournament will launch a mental health-focused community center, combining OJ’s vision of creating a space for mentorship through sports with YHC’s mission of holistic mental health support. The center will serve as a hub for:

  • Mindful sports camps and recreational activities.

  • Trauma-informed counseling and mental health resources.

  • Community-building initiatives to support at-risk youth, families, and trauma survivors.

Join Us in Honoring a Legacy

This tournament is a chance for the Richmond community to come together, celebrate OJ’s incredible contributions, and ensure his impact lives on for generations to come. Whether you’re attending, sponsoring, or volunteering, your participation helps create a brighter future for those who need it most.

Let’s make this surprise event unforgettable for OJ, showing him how much he’s loved and appreciated while laying the foundation for a lasting legacy.