Area high school basketball teams will participate in the 100 Black Men of Augusta’s 28th annual Thanksgiving Basketball Classic tournament Nov. 26-27 at Augusta University’s Christenberry Fieldhouse.
The two-event will feature boys’ teams on Friday and girls’ teams Saturday.
This is the first time in many years that girls’ teams have participating in the tournament, according to Don Quarles one of the founding members of the organization.
“We’ve got state champions – Josey,” said Quarles.
Interest in girls’ basketball has risen over the past few years, he said, and he believes it will draw fans to the tournament.
The high school basketball season in Georgia and South Carolina got underway recently, and some coaches use the tournament to scout their competition, said Jeffrey Wilson, another member of the organization.
In previous years, upwards of 1,000 basketball fans have attended the tournament, which begins at noon Friday, Wilson said.
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Teams include Butler, Greenbrier, Evans, Laney, Westside, Warren County, Jones County, Putnam County, Lakeside, Harlem, Baldwin County, Josey and Augusta Christian. Ten boys’ teams and eight girls’ teams will compete.
The tournament is one of the organization’s largest fundraisers.
Tickets to the tournament are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. Tickets are available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/28th-annual-thanksgiving-holiday-basketball-classic-tickets-195151010927
Founded in 1994, 100 Black Men of Augusta is a local chapter of 100 Black Men of America. It provides mentorship programs for children and teens.
“The mission of the 100 Black Men of Augusta, Inc. is to improve the quality of life within our communities and enhance educational and economic opportunities for all African Americans,” the website said.
The organization operates the Saturday Academy, where students learn life skills and leadership training. In January, programs will focus on personal finance from learning about a checking account to investing, according to member Derek Favors.
The basketball tournament is one of three major events that raise money for college scholarships. About seven college scholarships are awarded each year although some years as many as 14 have been distributed to graduating high school seniors in their program, said Wilson.
Charmain Z. Brackett is the Features Editor for The Augusta Press. Reach her at charmain@theaugustapress.com.
