‘Obama Classic’ To Unite Ballers With Donors
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By DERON SNYDER
In 2010, as part of the celebration for his 49th birthday, President Obama played a pickup basketball gamewith luminaries such as LeBron James, Magic Johnson, Bill Russell and Dwyane Wade. The game was played at Obama’s favorite local court — D.C.’s Fort McNair — not counting the one he had built at the White House upon moving in.
On Tuesday, three days after his 51st birthday, came word of another hoop-dreams treat that will also serve as a fundraiser. The Obama Classic will be held in New York on Aug. 22 and will feature Michael Jordan and several NBA stars, including Carmelo Anthony, Rajon Rondo and John Wall, in a shootaround. Jordan and NBA commissioner David Stern will also co-host a $20,000-per-person dinner with the president that evening.
The Obama campaign didn’t forget about the folks with less disposable income, who are welcome to donate and win a chance to participate in the event. “Imagine shooting hoops with Carmelo Anthony, Patrick Ewing, Sheryl Swoopes, Kyrie Irving and Alonzo Mourning,” Deputy National Field Director Marlon Marshall wrote in an email to supporters. “Oh, and you’ll get to meet President Obama and Michael Jordan over dinner, too.
“Now stop dreaming and make it happen. You and a guest of your choice could join President Obama and some of the greatest basketball stars for a special night at the Obama Classic. Pitch in $3 or whatever you can, and you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win.”
