Ever wondered what famous basketball players like Vince Carter, Jerry Stackhouse, and John Wall did during their summer breaks? They often played right here in Raleigh, in the ~40-year-old Chavis League.

That’s right, Raleigh is home to a competitive basketball league that has hosted college + NBA stars for years — and you can watch the games for free.

One of the league’s directors, Chris Moore, explained that the league is NCAA certified, which is how current college players are allowed to play. That leads to a lot of players from NC schools, as well as players who grew up locally but went to play at a school out of state getting to participate, he said.

One such player Chris mentioned is PJ Tucker, who would probably be playing in the league right now, but is instead playing in the NBA finals for the Milwaukee Bucks. PJ went to Raleigh's Enloe High School, where his jersey is now retired.

The league’s regular season is going on now through Thurs., July 22, followed by the postseason tournament July 27-29. Games are played Tuesdays + Thursdays at 6:30, 7:40, and 8:50 p.m. at Saint Augustine’s University’s Emery Gym.

“It’s competitive but it’s just fun for these guys,” Chris said. “A lot of people who don't get to see these guys in person or will see them on TV sometimes will get to see these guys play in person during the summer.”