LINN — Donkeys, laughter, and a lot of stubbornness filled the Linn High School fieldhouse April 16 as the Linn Elementary PTO hosted its Donkey Basketball fundraiser.

Four teams made up of students, staff, and alumni took the court, including the Double Dribblin’ Divas (HS girls), Dunkin’ Donut Dynasty (HS boys), All-Star Hoofin’ Air Ballers (staff), and Ba-donk-a-donk Net Ninjas (alumni and State Tech students).

The donkeys themselves — “Ex-Lax,” “Mr. Ed,” “Enforcer,” “Rigor Mortis,” “Super Stupid,” “Earthquake,” “Killer,” and “Elvis,” with substitutes “Hemorrhoid” and “Widow Maker” — drew as much attention as the players.

A large crowd filled much of the bleachers as classmates, teachers, and community members took turns on the court. The evening began with introductions and the national anthem, followed by a matchup between the Divas and the Dynasty.

After an intermission that included donkey rides for younger attendees, the staff team faced the alumni squad, with winners advancing to the championship.

While the bracket followed a typical format, the gameplay did not. Players spent much of the game on foot, pulling or guiding donkeys across the court before climbing on to attempt a shot. Passes, dribbles, and even staying mounted proved difficult as the animals set their own pace. A handler remained on the court throughout to manage the donkeys and keep the event running safely.

In the final game, the Dunkin’ Donut Dynasty faced the Ba-donk-a-donk Net Ninjas, with the high school boys team securing the win after a player, unable to turn his donkey, mounted backward and scored the final basket.

The event served as a fundraiser for the Linn Elementary PTO, with proceeds supporting students and teachers through PTO-sponsored programs and activities.

Sponsors included Mid America Bank, Freedom Mutual Insurance, Legends Bank, and Three Rivers Electric Cooperative. Concessions were provided by the Linn Happy Club, with additional support from the Helpers 4-H group.