Camden, NJ — The Black Cager Fall Classic, one of the premier Fall basketball events on the East Coast, is proud to announce Next Step Pre-ETS as an official sponsor for this year’s event. Next Step Coaching and Counseling Services (NSCC), an approved provider of Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) in New Jersey, delivers critical programming across Southern New Jersey, with a special focus on justice-involved youth and those at risk of dropping out.
This partnership highlights Next Step’s commitment to empowering youth and aligns perfectly with the Black Cager Fall Classic’s mission to foster talent and provide opportunities for young athletes. Next Step’s extensive work with at-risk youth, especially in Camden and Salem Counties, makes them an invaluable partner in the community.
“We are thrilled to partner with Next Step Pre-ETS for this year’s Black Cager Fall Classic,” said Lola Wilson, Event Organizer. “Their dedication to supporting at-risk youth and helping them prepare for their futures is truly commendable. This collaboration will not only enhance the event but will also provide participants with access to resources that can positively impact their lives.”
Next Step Pre-ETS offers a range of services designed to help students with disabilities learn about themselves, understand work requirements, practice essential skills, choose a career path, and explore further training options. By working extensively with youth who are at risk of dropping out or becoming involved in the justice system, Next Step is making a significant impact on the community.
The Black Cager Fall Classic will take place October 5th and 6th at Executive Fieldhouse, 555 Union Boulevard, Allentown, PA 18109, featuring top talent from across the region. With Next Step Pre-ETS as an official sponsor, the event promises to be more than just a showcase of basketball talent—it will be an opportunity for youth to engage with programs that can help them build brighter futures.
About Next Step Coaching and Counseling Services (NSCC): Next Step Coaching and Counseling Services is an approved provider of Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) in New Jersey. They provide essential services to youth across Southern New Jersey, focusing on those with disabilities, those at risk of dropping out, and justice-involved youth. Their programs are designed to prepare students for the workforce and ensure they have the skills and support needed to succeed in life.
About the Black Cager Fall Classic: The Black Cager Fall Classic is one of the most anticipated Fall basketball events on the East Coast, featuring top high school basketball talent from across the region. The event is dedicated to providing young athletes with the platform to showcase their skills and engage with opportunities that can help shape their future.
I am writing on behalf of Black Cager Sports Media regarding the unauthorized use of our trademark, “Fall Classic”. We have recently become aware that your company, City of Basketball Love, is using a mark that is identical or confusingly similar to our trademark in connection with scholastic pre-season basketball events, without our permission.
The late great Tom Konchalski worked the 2017 & 2018 Fall Classic events
Black Cager Sports has established common law rights to “Fall Classic” in connection with scholastic pre-season basketball events as a result of using the trademark in the ordinary course of trade over the past decade. As you know, Black Cager Sports has used “Fall Classic” while organizing, marketing and promoting scholastic pre-season basketball events for nearly ten years. Black Cager has established the Greater Philadelphia Region as the geographic scope of the “Fall Classic” trademark. Indeed, Black Cager “Fall Classic” events have been held at the following locations:
West Berlin, NJ – Peak Skills Basketball Philadelphia, PA – Girard College Springfield, PA – Cardinal O’Hara HS Wynnewood, PA – Friends Central School Wilmington, DE – Chase Fieldhouse Morrisville, PA – Charger Nation Allentown, PA – William Allen HS, East Side Youth Center and Executive Field House
We have worked diligently to build public recognition and association between “Fall Classic” and Black Cager Sports Media. This was achieved through nearly a decade of marketing, advertising and consistent use of “Fall Classic.” There are literally hundreds of examples of these advertisements still available on various social media platforms.
Black Cager Sports has kept thorough records of the first use and continuous use of the “Fall Classic” in commerce involving scholastic pre-season basketball events. This includes advertisements, team registrations, invoices, and any other documentation that shows “Fall Classic” has been used in connection with our scholastic pre-season basketball events.
We are requesting that City of Basketball Love discontinue use of “Fall Classic” in connection with your scholastic pre-season basketball events in the Greater Philadelphia Region. Your use of “Fall Classic” causes or is likely to cause confusion, deception or misunderstanding. Moreover, even if there is no direct competition or likelihood of confusion, your unauthorized use of “Fall Classic” to promote scholastic pre-season basketball events in the Greater Philadelphia Region diminishes its uniqueness and value constituting trademark dilution.
We respectfully request that you immediately: 1. Cease and desist from all use of “Fall Classic” or any other mark that is confusingly similar to “Fall Classic” in connection with your scholastic pre-season basketball events. 2. Remove all instances of “Fall Classic” from your websites, social media accounts, marketing materials, product packaging, and any other public-facing platforms. 3. Provide a written assurance within three (3) days from the date of this letter that you will comply with these requests and that you will not use any confusingly similar marks in the future.
Please be advised that if we do not receive a satisfactory response within three (3) days of your receipt of this letter, we will have no choice but to take your lack of response as a continued “Fuck Black Cager Sports Media.” We will respond accordingly.
We hope to resolve this matter amicably. We trust that you will understand the seriousness of this matter and act promptly to address our concerns.
CAMDEN, N.J. — On a bright Saturday morning, the gymnasium at H.B. Wilson Family School buzzed with excitement as Eric Dixon, star basketball player from Villanova University, made a special visit. The scene was a testament to the school’s commitment to student engagement and holistic development, a mission spearheaded by Principal Nicole Harrigan. Dixon, known for his resilience and remarkable journey from a top high school prospect to a standout college athlete, came to share his story with a group of 4th through 8th grade students.
Dixon’s visit was more than a meet-and-greet; it was an interactive session where he not only spoke about perseverance but also took to the court to play basketball with the eager young students. As he moved among them, the palpable excitement in the room mirrored the inspiration they drew from his presence.
In his address, Dixon detailed his transition from a top 100 high school player to the challenges he faced at Villanova University. “When I first arrived on campus, I was told I wasn’t good enough,” he recounted. His journey took a pivotal turn when he chose to redshirt his freshman year, dedicating himself to strength and conditioning. This decision laid the foundation for his emergence as a repeat All-Big East performer.
H.B. Wilson Family School is part of a growing movement across the nation, integrating mindfulness into the classroom. The Saturday morning program, developed and implemented by Principal Harrigan, aims to foster an environment where students can thrive both academically and personally. Mindfulness, defined by Jon Kabat-Zinn as “the awareness that emerges through paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally,” is becoming a cornerstone of the school’s approach, yielding benefits such as reduced stress, increased focus, and improved academic performance.
“Eric is a wonderful role model for our students,” Harrigan stated. “He shared stories about overcoming adversity and the process of becoming a leader. The kids were really engaged and asked great questions. I look forward to having Eric present to our full student body in the fall.” Dixon, reflecting on his visit, said, “I am grateful for this opportunity to talk to kids that are making an effort to improve themselves and do better in school. My core message to the youth is to find your ‘thing,’ whatever it may be, and focus your energies on becoming the very best in that area. Good things will happen if you do that.”
The impact of Dixon’s visit extended beyond the gymnasium walls, resonating deeply with the students. As H.B. Wilson Family School continues to champion mindfulness and holistic education, moments like these underscore the importance of community and the enduring power of personal stories to inspire the next generation.
ALLENTOWN, PA – In a significant move aimed at accommodating its expanding reach, the prestigious Black Cager Fall Classic, one of the nation’s premier pre-season boys’ basketball events, will be held at the newly opened Executive Education Field House in Allentown, PA. This marks a new chapter for the beloved fall tradition, now celebrating its 10th year, with team registration currently open for the event scheduled on Saturday, October 5 and Sunday, October 6, 2024.
Previously hosted at William Allen High School and the East Side Youth Center since 2022, the Black Cager Fall Classic has outgrown these venues, which hosted the event after its initial eight-year stint in Philadelphia. The move to the Executive Education Field House, a 28,200-square-foot facility, signifies a commitment to future growth, with expectations to host 96 teams in its inaugural year at this new location.
“The continued success of the Fall Classic is a reflection of Allentown’s pride and commitment to providing youth with first-rate modern athletic facilities,” said Delgreco Wilson, Executive Director of Black Cager Sports. “Participating coaches and players were blown away by the accommodations. With four brand-new hardwood regulation courts and highly visible scoreboards for each court, the basketball facilities are on par with high major Division 1 programs,” Wilson added.
The Executive Education Field House is uniquely equipped to handle such a large event, boasting over 2,000 parking spaces and elevators for disabled or injured patrons. The collaboration between Executive Education Academy Charter School and Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) has resulted in a facility that serves as a major asset not only to the school and Allentown but the entire region.
“The Field House hosted the Black Cager Pre-Live Summer Classic featuring over 30 teams in June. The positive feedback from that event confirmed that this facility is perfect for our growing needs,” Wilson noted.
The Fall Classic is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and has a storied history of featuring players who have gone on to become McDonald’s All-Americans and NBA draftees, including Jalen Duren, Seth Lundy, and Bub Carrington. Since 2015, over 100 participants have progressed to play NCAA Division 1 basketball.
For more information on the tournament, including visitor details, ticket sales, schedules, team information, sponsorship opportunities, and more, please visit delgrecowilson.com. Media Inquiries and Sponsorship Opportunities:
Delgreco Wilson, Founder, Black Cager Sports
Email: blackcager@gmail.com
Phone: 856-366-0992
Follow Us on Social Media: Instagram: @BlackCagerPress Threads: blackcagerpress Facebook: Black Cager Press
Black Cager Sports Media continues to lead in promoting and celebrating high school basketball excellence. Through events, media coverage, and community engagement, they foster the growth and development of young athletes, providing a platform for their talents to shine.
About Black Cager Sports Media: Black Cager Sports Media is dedicated to promoting, covering, and celebrating basketball excellence at the high school level. Through a combination of events, media coverage, and community engagement, Black Cager Sports Media aims to foster growth and development among young athletes while providing a platform for their talents to shine.
For more information on the Black Cager Fall Classic and related events, visit delgrecowilson.com.
Allentown, PA – During the first annual Pre-Live Period Summer Classic,Delgreco Wilson, Executive Director of Black Cager Sports was thrilled to announce a significant partnership with Education Academy Charter School, bringing a series of high-profile basketball events to the newly unveiled Executive Fieldhouse. This state-of-the-art facility, built in collaboration with Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN), spans an impressive 28,000 square feet and is designed to host four basketball games simultaneously.
“We are very excited to host Black Cager Sport Events in our fieldhouse. They have demonstrated an ability to attract highly competitive high school programs to Allentown,” said Executive Education Academy Charter School CEO Robert Lysek. “Not only do Executive student-athletes benefit, but our facility is also used by many local and regional programs. We look forward to hosting several Black Cager events every year.”
Bob Lysek, Executive Education Charter School, CEO (l) and Executive supporter Pamela Tillett (r)
The Executive Fieldhouse is a premier multi-court facility featuring four brand-new regulation-size courts, each equipped with large, dedicated electronic scoreboards. The venue boasts a cutting-edge sound system, full wheelchair accessibility, and ample space for concessions. Additionally, the facility offers over 2,000 adjacent parking spaces, ensuring ease of access for spectators and participants alike.
Delgreco Wilson expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “We’ve hosted basketball events for more than a decade, and the Executive Fieldhouse is the finest multi-court facility in the mid-Atlantic region. The presence of two highly qualified athletic trainers provided by LVHN is a huge plus, as players and coaches can rest assured that sports-related injuries are appropriately treated right away.”
Jason Boggs, Director of Basketball Events, Black Cager Sports
The commitment from Black Cager Sports to host multiple events annually at the Executive Fieldhouse is set to elevate the local sports scene. “Bob Lysek and Ray Barbosa are very easy to work with. They want to provide young people with a clean, modern, and safe place to compete and gain exposure. Black Cager Sports shares the same goals. My partner, Jason Boggs, and I have decided to make this a long-term partnership,” Wilson added.
Gabe Hornberger ’25, Executive Academy wing receiving D1 interest from Patriot and Ivy Programs
This collaboration underscores Executive Education Academy Charter School’s dedication to enhancing athletic opportunities for its students and the broader community. The Executive Fieldhouse, with its cutting-edge amenities and strategic partnerships, is poised to become a central hub for competitive basketball in the region.
I got a text from former Phil Martelli this afternoon. For the better part of two decades, Martelli and I have maintained an ongoing dialogue surrounding the future of what used to be considered amateur basketball in the United States. We both lament the fact that college, high school and AAU/grassroots basketball at the highest levels have crossed the rubicon and can no longer be consider purely amateur endeavors. The text consisted of a link to a movie trailer to a documentary, “THE SPOILS”, I had never heard of.
After watching the trailer, I understood exactly why Martelli sent me the link. He knew this was a film I had to see.
“THE SPOILS” is a groundbreaking and illuminating documentary that every basketball enthusiast, parent, and coach must watch. This remarkable film, which follows the esteemed Compton Magic AAU/grassroots program over a decade, offers an unparalleled and deeply insightful exploration into the transformation of youth basketball in America into a colossal business enterprise.
Directed by the visionary filmmaker Future, Mike Nicoll, “THE SPOILS” delves into the heart of the American basketball industrial complex, revealing the intricate and often shadowy financial systems that have taken root in AAU and grassroots basketball. Through the eyes of Etop Udo-Ema, the passionate Co-Founder and CEO of the Compton Magic, viewers are treated to an honest and compelling narrative that sheds light on the raw capitalism driving the sport.
The documentary’s unprecedented access to the inner workings of this financial behemoth is nothing short of extraordinary. Future masterfully unravels the various elements that contribute to the commercialization of youth basketball, providing a first-hand examination of how the industry identifies, anoints, and monetizes the next generation of superstars. The film’s candid portrayal of the relentless pursuit of “The Next LeBron” is both eye-opening and thought-provoking.
“THE SPOILS” is more than just a documentary; it is a vital resource for parents of talented high school basketball players. It offers a critical perspective on the summer circuits sponsored by major shoe companies like Adidas, Nike, Under Armour, and Puma. By highlighting the stakes, pressures, and opportunities within this high-stakes environment, the film equips parents with the knowledge they need to navigate their children’s journeys in the world of competitive basketball.
In conclusion, “THE SPOILS” is a masterclass in documentary filmmaking. It captivates, educates, and inspires, all while offering a sobering look at the commercialization of youth sports. This film is an absolute must-watch for anyone connected to the world of basketball, from aspiring players and their families to coaches and fans. “THE SPOILS” is a true cinematic triumph that will leave a lasting impact on its audience.
To watch this magnificent film click the link below.
The concept of the “Great White Hope” emerged in the early 20th century against the backdrop of pervasive racism and white supremacy in the United States. This term, deeply rooted in the Apartheid-like dynamics of the era, was first coined in 1911 when Jack Johnson, the first Black heavyweight champion, seemed unbeatable by any white boxer. The term encapsulated the desperation and determination of white America to see a white champion reclaim the title from Johnson, symbolizing a broader desire to restore racial hierarchies disrupted by Johnson’s dominance.
A century later, we are witnessing he re-emergence of the concept as the flames of American racism/white supremacy are raging once again. WNBA rookie sensation Caitlin Clark is carrying the desperation and determination of white America to see a white, heterosexual woman basketball player from the Midwest anointed as the very best the sport has to offer. The immense popularity of Clark among white fans is indicative of her exceptional shooting ability and a yearning to restore white athletic hegemony disrupted by the dismantling of Jim Crow/Apartheid over the past half century.
Historical Context of Racism and White Supremacy In the early 1900s, the United States was steeped in racial discrimination and segregation, epitomized by the Jim Crow/Apartheid laws that rigidly enforced racial segregation in the throughout much of the United States. Jim Crow/Apartheid emerged in response to social, political, economic and educational gains Blacks made during the Reconstruction Era immediately following the Civil War. These laws, upheld by the infamous Plessy v. Ferguson Supreme Court decision in 1896, institutionalized the doctrine of “separate but equal,” which, in practice, meant systemic disenfranchisement and oppression of African Americans. In this climate, sports were not exempt from the pervasive racial attitudes of the time. Boxing, like many other sports, was segregated, with Black athletes often denied opportunities to compete against their white counterparts.
In 2007, Don Imus called the Rutgers Womens Basketball team “nappy-headed hoes” on air.
In the early 2000s, we are in the midst of an intense white backlash. Also known as white rage, this is the negative response from some white individuals to the racial progress and advancements made by Black and other minority groups, particularly in terms of rights, economic opportunities, and cultural or political influence. This phenomenon is often tied to the politics of white grievance, where the progress of minority groups is perceived as a threat to the historical power and privilege held by white individuals under slavery/Jim Crow/Apartheid social orders. Emerging most prominently following the Civil Rights Movement, white backlash manifests as a reaction against the strides made by previously oppressed groups, including their pursuit of equality and self-determination. Additionally, it encompasses a particularly visceral negative reaction from some white Americans when confronted with examinations of their own white privilege, further highlighting the resistance to acknowledging and addressing systemic racial inequalities.
Jack Johnson, first black world heavyweight boxing champion (1908–1915).
Jack Johnson’s Reign and the Search for the “Great White Hope” Jack Johnson’s rise to the heavyweight championship in 1908 was a significant challenge to the racial status quo. Johnson’s prowess in the ring and his flamboyant lifestyle, including his relationships with white women, provoked outrage among white Americans. His dominance in a sport long seen as a bastion of white masculinity was perceived as a direct threat to white supremacy. As Johnson successfully defended his title against a series of white challengers, the anxiety and desperation among white boxing fans grew.
Jim Jeffries (l) and Jack Johnson (r)
The term “Great White Hope” was coined in this context, reflecting the hopes pinned on a white boxer who could dethrone Johnson and restore the racial order. The most famous of these challengers was James J. Jeffries, a former heavyweight champion coaxed out of retirement in 1910 to fight Johnson. Promoted as the “Hope of the White Race,” Jeffries was defeated by Johnson in a match that further inflamed racial tensions and led to race riots across the United States.
Caitlin Clark, the new “Great White Hope” The dominance of Dawn Staley’s predominantly Black South Carolina Gamecocks along with the emergence of Angel Reese as a brash, confident cultural icon among Black women and girls poses a significant challenge to those seeking to re-establish a white supremacist status quo. Reese’s production on the court, immense popularity in the worlds of fashion and hip hip culture provoke intense rage among right wing sports commentators. The dominance of Staley and Reese has been perceived as a threat to white supremacy. As Staley and Reese continued to win at the collegiate level and exemplify “Black Girl Magic,” perturbation and despondency among white basketball fans grew.
Enter Caitlin Clark, a white, heterosexual woman from the midwest playing for a very good predominantly white Iowa team… In college, she looked fearless on the floor and played under control. Against college players, Clark was able to get virtually any shot she wanted. Teams were completely focused on her defensively, rotating different players at her, so she was always under pressure and still found a way to hit difficult shots every game. She moved well without the ball, had great footwork when coming off screens and was always ready to shoot. The hope was that Clark and Iowa could somehow dethrone Staley’s Gamecocks.
Naaaaaah…
But, a the professional level, Clark has emerged as contemporary”Great White Hope.” This cultural revival of the term has extended its definition beyond boxing to women’s basketball. For millions of white American sports fans, Clark represents a highly skilled heterosexual white female challenger in a sport dominated by non-whites.
Broader Implications and Modern Usage The enduring legacy and applicability of the “Great White Hope” concept speaks to the persistent undercurrents of racial bias in sports and society. Even as overt racism has become less socially acceptable, the term’s occasional modern usage reveals lingering prejudices and the pressure placed on white athletes in sports dominated by Black athletes. It also highlights the complex interplay between race, sports, and societal expectations.
Near the end of the championship game in 2023, Angel Reese waved her hand in front of her face, stared at Iowa guard Caitlin Clark and pointed toward her ring finger. One week earlier, after nailing a three at the end of the game against Louisville to cap off a 41 point, 12 assist and 10 rebound triple-double, Clark gave Hailey Van Lith her “you can’t see me” gesture.
Two All-Americans… Same gesture… On week apart.
One week apart, two All-American players in the heat of fierce competition celebrated by talkin’ shit. That’s what ballers do… They talk shit!
But… Reese is Black and Clark is white.
Hence, Clark was celebrated and praised. She’s fierce… She’s an intense competitor…
One week later, when Reese mimicked Clark and let the Iowa star know “you can’t see me,” it sparked outrage in sports around the world. And the 20-year-old young Black woman who led her school to its first-ever championship was called classless, ghetto, and a thug by some of the most prominent white men in sports media.
In a post that has reached over 79 million viewers, Barstool Sports Dave Portnoy call young Ms. Reese a “Classless piece of shit.” Keith Olberman, formerly of ESPN and NBC labeled a Reese “a fucking idiot.” Olbermann’s post has been viewed over 35 million times.
In contemporary times, the conversation around race and sports has evolved, but the echoes of the “Great White Hope” mentality can still be observed. The term serves as a reminder of a period when sports were not just about athletic prowess but also about racial pride and prejudice. Understanding this historical context is crucial in recognizing how far society has come and how much further it needs to go in achieving true racial equality in all spheres of life, including sports.
When asked about the “you can’t see me” gesture after the game, Reese defended her response and stated, “All year, I was critiqued for who I was. I don’t fit the narrative. I don’t fit the box that ya’ll want me to be in. I’m too ‘hood. I’m too ghetto. Ya’ll told me that all year.,” Then in reference to Clark, she added, “When other people do it, ya’ll don’t say nothing. So, this is for the girls that look like me. For those that want to speak up for what they believe in. It’s unapologetically you.”
No lies detected…
Conclusion The concept of the “Great White Hope” emerged from a specific historical context marked by intense racism and the desire to maintain white supremacy. Jack Johnson’s success as a Black heavyweight champion challenged these societal norms, prompting the search for a white boxer who could restore the perceived racial order. Today, Caitlin Clark has been charged with the immense task of restoring some sort of racial order to the world of women’s basketball. While the term has evolved and broadened in its application, its origins and continued relevance underscore the deep-seated racial dynamics that have historically shaped, and continue to influence, the world of sports.
Understanding the evolution of Black political thought in America is crucial for Black youth for several compelling reasons. It provides historical context, fosters critical thinking, nurtures a sense of identity and empowerment, and equips them to navigate and challenge contemporary social and political issues. The current right wing assault on critical race theory (CRT), often misrepresented and maligned, poses a significant threat to the dissemination of this important historical information.
Historical Context and Awareness
Recognizing Struggles and Achievements: Knowledge of the evolution of Black political thought allows Black youth to understand the historical struggles and achievements of African Americans. This includes the fight against slavery, segregation, and systemic racism, as well as the contributions of Black leaders, activists, and intellectuals. This historical awareness is vital for comprehending the context of present-day social and political dynamics.
Understanding Diverse Perspectives: The landscape of Black political thought is diverse, encompassing various ideologies from Black Conservatism to Black Nationalism, from Civil Rights to Black Power movements and from Abolitionist movements to Insurrectionist movements. Familiarity with these different perspectives helps Black youth appreciate the unique complexity and richness of their heritage and the multiple pathways through which their ancestors sought justice and equality.
Fostering Critical Thinking
Analyzing Contrasting Views: Engaging with the ideas of thinkers like Nat Turner, Frederick Douglass, W.E.B. DuBois, Booker T. Washington, Thomas Sowell, Shelby Steele, and Walter Williams, alongside those of Black Lives Matter and other contemporary movements, encourages critical thinking. Black youth can learn to analyze, compare, and contrast different viewpoints, fostering a deeper understanding of political and social issues.
Developing Informed Opinions: By studying the evolution of Black political thought, Black youth are better equipped to form their own informed opinions about current issues. This includes understanding the historical roots of systemic racism, the debates surrounding economic policies, and the various approaches to achieving social justice.
Identity and Empowerment
Building a Sense of Identity: Knowledge of their history and the intellectual legacy of their forebears helps Black youth build a strong sense of identity and pride. It affirms their place in the American narrative and highlights the resilience and contributions of their community.
Empowerment Through Knowledge: Understanding the struggles and achievements of past generations can be empowering. It provides Black youth with role models and a sense of continuity, motivating them to engage in activism, leadership, and efforts to bring about positive change in their communities.
Navigating Contemporary Issues
Addressing Systemic Challenges: The historical and theoretical frameworks provided by Black political thought are essential tools for understanding and addressing contemporary issues such as police brutality, economic inequality, and educational disparities. These frameworks offer insights into the root causes of these problems and potential strategies for overcoming them.
Resisting Misrepresentation: The current assault on CRT often involves misrepresenting it as an anti-American ideology. In reality, CRT and the broader study of Black political thought provide critical analyses of American history and society, essential for a comprehensive education. By understanding these ideas, Black youth can better resist and challenge attempts to restrict or distort their history and the ongoing struggle for justice.
Countering the Assault on Critical Race Theory
The Importance of Accurate Historical Education: The misrepresentation of CRT as a divisive or harmful ideology is a red herring that distracts from its true purpose: to critically examine and understand the role of race and racism in shaping American society. Restricting the teaching of CRT and related historical content deprives Black youth of crucial knowledge and undermines efforts to create an informed and equitable society.
Advocating for Comprehensive Curriculum: Ensuring that Black youth have access to a comprehensive and accurate curriculum that includes the evolution of Black political thought is essential. This not only fosters a more inclusive education system but also prepares all students to engage thoughtfully and empathetically with issues of race and social justice.
In conclusion, more than ever before, it is vital for Black youth to know and understand the evolution of Black political thought in America. This knowledge enriches their historical awareness, fosters critical thinking, nurtures their sense of identity, empowers them to address contemporary challenges, and equips them to counter efforts to misrepresent and restrict their history. Ensuring access to this important information is a crucial step towards a more just and informed society
PHILADELPHIA, PA – May 14, 2024 – The world of college basketball scholarships has undergone a seismic shift in recent years, and the epicenter of this transformation lies in the transfer portal. Once a mere footnote in the recruiting process, the transfer portal has now become a game-changer, reshaping the landscape for both high school prospects and college coaches.
The Transfer Portal: A New Frontier
Imagine a bustling marketplace where athletes can freely explore their options, unshackled by the traditional constraints of commitment. That’s the transfer portal—a digital agora where players can test the waters, seek greener pastures, and redefine their collegiate destinies. No longer bound by the rigid boundaries of their initial commitment, student-athletes can now move with unprecedented fluidity.
The Recruiting Dance: A New Choreography
For college coaches, the transfer portal has rewritten the recruiting playbook. Gone are the days when coaches could meticulously court high school phenoms, nurturing them from raw talent to polished stars. Instead, they find themselves wading through a sea of experienced players who have already tasted the college game. These transfer prospects arrive battle-tested, their skills honed in the crucible of actual competition.
The Second (and Third) Act
In this new era, players transferring for the second or even third time are no longer outliers—they’re the norm. The transfer portal grants immediate eligibility, allowing these seasoned athletes to step onto the court without missing a beat. Their maturity, physicality, and court awareness make them coveted assets for college programs hungry for instant impact.
The High School Dilemma
But what of the high school prospects—the fresh-faced dreamers who once held the keys to college basketball scholarships? Their path has grown rockier. With more than 2,000 transfer prospects flooding the market, coaches now have a buffet of options. Why invest in an untested high schooler when a battle-tested transfer is readily available?
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Let’s crunch the numbers. In the Big Ten alone, 79 scholarship players entered the transfer portal during the recent window. These weren’t just fringe players; some were major contributors. The transfer frenzy has left high school recruits jostling for attention, their star potential overshadowed by the allure of experience.
The Way Forward
As we navigate this brave new world, we must strike a balance. Yes, the transfer portal offers exciting opportunities for athletes seeking fresh starts. But let’s not forget the magic of discovering raw talent—the high school kid with fire in their eyes, dreaming of cutting down nets. College coaches, take heed: The next superstar might still be shooting hoops in a high school gym.
In the end, the transfer portal isn’t the villain—it’s the catalyst for change. As we recalibrate our expectations, let’s remember that every journey begins somewhere. Perhaps, just perhaps, the next college basketball legend is dribbling a ball on a high school court, waiting for their chance to shine.
High School Live Periods
In the world of college basketball recruiting, there remain High School Live Periods when coaches focus their attention on high school prospects. These critical junctures allow coaches to assess both academic qualifications and playing ability. Among these periods, two specific windows stand out: June 21-23 and June 28-30. During these six days, Division 1 college coaches engage in off-campus activities to evaluate prospective student-athletes. Importantly, no in-person, off-campus recruiting contacts occur during these evaluation periods.
Black Cager Pre-Live Summer Classic
The Philadelphia/Camden region boasts one of the nation’s premier live events for high school prospects: “Philly Live.” Hundreds of Division I college coaches converge on Philadelphia annually to scout local talent. For high school coaches, participation in Philly Live has become essential—a strategic move to position their players for basketball scholarships. But there’s more: the Black Cager Pre-Live Summer Classic, taking place on June 15th and 16th, offers an additional opportunity. This event allows coaches to “warm up” their teams with two highly competitive games, closely mirroring the actual live period. Coaches can analyze game footage from these matchups to prepare for the high school live period.
While Division I coaches cannot attend the Black Cager Summer Classic, hundreds of small college coaches do. NAIA, Division II, and Division III coaches actively recruit players at Black Cager events. For high school coaches aiming to help their players secure college scholarships, participating in Black Cager tournaments is a strategic move that pays huge dividends. It’s an opportunity to showcase talent, build connections, and open doors for aspiring student-athletes. So, as the calendar turns to those crucial June days, the basketball world watches, and high school coaches seize their limited opportunities to shape the future of the game for the young men in their respective programs.
As I prepare to graduate this month, I find myself reflecting on my incredible journey at the University of Maryland. It’s hard to believe that just a few years ago, I arrived in College Park as a shy young man with a learning disability. I spent much of my elementary and middle school years struggling to adjust to school. Basketball became my way up and out of Norristown, PA. Basketball led me to Coach Andre Noble and Imhotep Charter High School where I learned how to learn. Today, I stand before you as a college graduate, a published author, and the all-time leader in basketball games played in a Terrapin uniform. This transformation wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of this community.
First and foremost, I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Maryland basketball fanbase. Your prayers and encouragement during our most challenging times meant the world to me and my family. When our home was flooded out, you rallied together, raising over $60,000 to ensure that my mother and siblings could relocate. Your kindness and generosity touched our hearts, and we will forever be grateful.
Throughout my time here, I had the privilege of playing for three different coaches: Mark Turgeon, Danny Manning, and Kevin Willard. While coaching changes can be unsettling for players, I never once considered transferring. Why? Because I knew that my place was right here in College Park. Thousands of college basketball players enter the transfer portal each year, seeking greener pastures elsewhere. But for me, there was no place I’d rather be than wearing the red, black, and gold of the Terps.
As I step off the court and into the next chapter of my life, I carry with me the memories, friendships, and life lessons that this university has given me. My book, WIRED DIFFERENTLY: My School Journey, chronicles my K-12 educational experience as a student who learned differently. It’s a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and the unwavering support of a community that believed in me.
To my teammates, coaches, professors, and fellow students: thank you for shaping me into the person I am today. I am proud to be a Terp for life, and I will continue to carry the spirit of Maryland with me wherever I go.
The Black Cager 