*Los Angeles – The spotlight is shining brightly in the entertainment capital of the world. The reason for this global viewing is due to the NBA All-Star game being held in the City of Angels.
The Baldwin Hills Crenshaw celebrated Black History Month by honoring the Drew League for its tremendous contribution, dedication to the community, Saturday, February 17th, 2018.
This incredible event was held at Macy’s Bridge, from 2:00pm-3:00pm. It bears repeating that this event was held during NBA All-Star weekend.
Lauren A. Jones, Sports Reporter moderated a panel of distinguished former NBA players to speak about the Drew League and its importance to not only the players but to the community as well. The panel consisted of Dino Smiley, Director, Commissioner of the Drew League, Marques Johnson, Craig “Rhino” Smith, Duane Cooper, Aldridge Recasner and Drew League/NBA Referee Derrick Richardson.
The panel mentioned that many players participant in the Drew League to fine tune their game, and that it doesn’t matter if you are an NBA player, college player or street baller, one has to bring their “A” game to the court in an environment of respect and fellowship.
Also in attendance at this event were Joyce Brown, Retired Principle, Drew Middle School where the games are held, Ruth Jefferson, Retired Counselor/Teacher, Drew Middle School and George Preciado, popular Drew League Announcer.
I have to name drop a few current/former NBA players who have graced the courts of the Drew League, considering that it is NBA All-Star Weekend in the City of Angels. Kobe Bryant, Byron Scott, LeBron James, Michael Cooper, Kevin Durant, Paul Pierce, Jason Hart, Trevor Ariza, Nick Young, Demar Rouzan, James Harden, Paul George, Metta World Peace, Baron Davis, just to name a few.
Angeline Buenaventura, Marketing Director presented a check to Dino Smiley of the Drew League in recognition of the wonderful work that they are doing in and for the community.
Established in 1973, the Drew League is known for west coast pro-am basketball all over the world. Starting with 6 teams, creator Alvin Willis believed this league could be a place for young men and women of South Central Los Angeles to learn life lessons through basketball and form life long relationships on the court that would spill over to the neighborhood.
Under the leadership of Dino Smiley, the Drew League has increased to 28 “invitation-only teams made of street ball legends, collegiate athletes, and several NBA stars.
The Drew League is held annually at Charles Drew Middle School, the league offers players a safe haven and place of opportunity and most importantly, a chance to show off their “A” game.
Check out www.drewleague.com and www.drewleaguefoundation.org for more information about the upcoming Drew League schedule.
Ricky Richardson is a Southern California based writer, music reviewer and photographer. Contact him via: [email protected]
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