Rukapuff Rocka Slam Jam Charity Basketball Game returns for 19th year to unite St. Louis community

The annual event brings families, artists and the community together to support local youth programs.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 10:50am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The 19th annual Rukapuff Rocka Slam Jam Charity Basketball Game, hosted by Byron 'Zeus' Waters, is returning to St. Louis next weekend. The event, which started nearly two decades ago as a way to unite the entertainment community, has grown into a citywide celebration that attracts people from all walks of life. Proceeds from the charity game will support local initiatives aimed at helping youth and families, including St. James the Greater Church and School Star Camp, a free summer camp program.

Why it matters

The Rukapuff Rocka Slam Jam Charity Basketball Game is an important annual tradition that brings the St. Louis community together through sports, entertainment, and a shared commitment to supporting local youth programs. In a time when many communities are seeking ways to foster unity and connection, this event provides a positive platform for families, artists, and residents to come together for a common cause.

The details

The 19th annual Rukapuff Rocka Slam Jam Charity Basketball Game will take place on Sunday, April 12, 2026 from 1-5 p.m. at St. James the Greater in St. Louis. The event features friendly basketball competition, food, music, and entertainment. Organizers say the event is designed to bring joy and unity to the city, with funds raised supporting local youth initiatives like the St. James the Greater Church and School Star Camp program.

  • The Rukapuff Rocka Slam Jam Charity Basketball Game has been an annual event for nearly two decades, since it was first launched in 2007.
  • The 19th annual event is scheduled for Sunday, April 12, 2026 from 1-5 p.m.

The players

Byron 'Zeus' Waters

The founder and host of the Rukapuff Rocka Slam Jam Charity Basketball Game, known for his high-energy performances across St. Louis under the stage name 'Rukapuff'.

St. James the Greater Church and School

A local church and school that will be a beneficiary of funds raised at the Rukapuff Rocka Slam Jam Charity Basketball Game, which will support their Star Camp program, a free summer camp for youth.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'Rukapuff is something that is truly a St. Louis thing. It was built in St. Louis.'”

— Byron 'Zeus' Waters, Founder and host of the Rukapuff Rocka Slam Jam Charity Basketball Game

“'You'll see people you haven't seen in three or four years, but for this event, everybody comes together for a great cause.'”

— Byron 'Zeus' Waters, Founder and host of the Rukapuff Rocka Slam Jam Charity Basketball Game

“'Definitely fun, good food, a lot of hugs, a lot of smiles, which we definitely need right now. We need community. We need togetherness.'”

— Byron 'Zeus' Waters, Founder and host of the Rukapuff Rocka Slam Jam Charity Basketball Game

What’s next

Organizers encourage families to attend the 19th annual Rukapuff Rocka Slam Jam Charity Basketball Game on Sunday, April 12, 2026 from 1-5 p.m. at St. James the Greater in St. Louis.

The takeaway

The Rukapuff Rocka Slam Jam Charity Basketball Game is an important annual tradition that brings the St. Louis community together through sports, entertainment, and a shared commitment to supporting local youth programs. By fostering unity, connection, and positive opportunities for young people, this event demonstrates the power of community-driven initiatives to make a meaningful impact.