He Saw 85-Year Old's Playing. He Was '5' Before '8'. Time to Join The Fun.

John is 58. He saw 85-year old men playing hoops at the 2023 National Senior Games. Put the '5' before '8' and you have a new convert to the older crowd having a blast. Photo courtesy National Senior Games.

More on the Senior Games.

By Danielle Brown

John Fitsioris, 58, is a long-time basketball enthusiast who hadn’t played in nearly two decades. He found his inspiration watching the age 85+ teams mixing it up at the 2023 National Senior Games in his hometown of Pittsburgh. 

Now, John finds himself competing in Des Moines at the 2025 National Senior Games presented by Humana, ready to bring his renewed passion back to the court. 

“I noticed there were teams playing in the 85 and older age category for both men and women,” John recalls. “That was probably the biggest inspiration for me, to get out, start working out a little bit, getting in better shape.”  

John’s workouts blossomed into a mission to form a team, despite the challenge.

“It was tough, because many guys my age are done playing,” he said. “I asked close to 100 friends; the answer was mostly no.”

Despite the initial rejections, John remained persistent, eventually assembling a group of fellow enthusiasts in the Steel City. The team named itself ‘Team Up’ and their dedication eventually led them to the Pennsylvania State Games. There, in a quirky start to their competitive journey, they won by default, being the only team to show up in their age bracket.

Beyond personal transformation, John’s renewed basketball passion created a ripple effect.

“A few have started a new plan to get into better shape,” John explained. “Not necessarily to play basketball, although maybe. It’s a big win-win.”

Arriving in Iowa with just four players—Rich Brennan, Dave Furry and Mark Teel—‘Team Up’ approached this year’s National Senior Games for 3-on-3 with wide eyes.

“We didn’t know what to expect,” John said, “We just came here to play our best.”

Beyond his team, John is thankful for the support and encouragement of his wife, family and friends.

For John, the entire experience is a big win beyond basketball. “It’s about reconnecting, getting in shape and seeing others inspired to get into better fitness.”

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