Fans Celebrate 23 Years of ‘One Tree Hill’ with Basketball Reunion in Wilmington

More than two decades after the TV show One Tree Hill first aired, fans and cast members gathered in Wilmington, North Carolina, to celebrate its 23rd anniversary with a special basketball reunion.

The event, called Hey 23, took place on September 19, 2026, at UNC Wilmington’s Trask Coliseum, a venue that holds just over 5,000 people. It was filled with nearly 5,000 fans, some traveling from as far as France, Australia, and Greenland, all eager to relive the basketball spirit at the heart of the show.

Cast members who played on the original Tree Hill Ravens team joined in the game, including James Lafferty, who portrayed Nathan Scott wearing the iconic number 23 jersey. Other familiar faces like Chad Michael Murray, Antwon Tanner, Robbie Jones, and Bryan Greenberg also took part, rekindling memories for long-time viewers.

The basketball theme was fitting since the show’s story revolved around the lives of half-brothers Nathan and Lucas Scott and their high school basketball rivalry and teamwork. James Lafferty himself had a real-life basketball background, having been a high school MVP before landing the role.

Beyond the game, the reunion weekend featured autograph sessions, photo opportunities, live music, and a fashion show, all held at various locations in Wilmington that fans recognize from the series. This included spots like Laney High School, where many basketball scenes were filmed, and the famous Naley Bench on the Riverwalk.

For many attendees, the event was more than just a game. It was a chance to connect with a show that offered comfort and escape during tough times, and to share that experience with family and friends. One fan from Michigan called the anniversary “super special,” noting how the number 23 remains a nostalgic symbol of the series.

Though the event was a celebration of a TV show, it also brought people together through the universal language of basketball — the very heart of One Tree Hill.