SOUTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - The third annual 'Magic for Maddie' returned this weekend, as the community came together to celebrate the life of Maddie Schmidt through the love of basketball. Maddie passed away in 2022 after a 10-month heroic battle with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a r are type of pediatric brain cancer. This annual event not only brings together those who knew her, but also state leaders. Turning pain into purpose, Saturday's 3v3 basketball tournament hosted by Magic for Maddie did just that. Amherst to host “Rubbish Roundup” for community cleanup "She's done in eight years what many people don't accomplish in 80," said Joe Westcott, director of the 3v3 tournament. "Very kind young girl. Her kindness and tenacity touched a lot of people." Maddie's legacy lives on through the two-day tournament with 153 teams and more than 500 participants, all taking place at her elementary school, Norris School in Southampton. Some of the players in the tournament included her former classmates and close friends, who remembered her kindness and resilience.  "Strong and brave," said one of Maddie's friends. "Very strong," added another classmate. "Loved by like, all her whole family, everybody she met."  "She was always happy," a third player said. And though every game on the court won't be a win this weekend, each dribble is a step closer to finding more research on pediatric cancer. Magic for Maddie is committed to supporting local families going through similar tragedies, bringing awareness and trying to find a cure by meeting with local and state leaders. Senator John Velis took part in the tournament on Saturday. 90% of children diagnosed with DIPG pass away within two years of the diagnosis. Magic for Maddie is determined to do more and give the kids a fighting chance.  Magic for Maddie hosts events year-round. If you'd like to get involved in their mission, visit magicformaddie.com. Local News Headlines Woburn restaurant owners sentenced to prison for migrant smuggling conspiracy Former rep reflects on career, reputation lost to gambling addiction Top 10 parks to visit on National Take a Walk in the Park Day, according to TripAdvisor 22News InFocus: First responder recruitment and training WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. ...read more read less