Sports Media Report
Coaches Vs. Racism (CVR), a national non-profit leading the charge to end systemic racism through sports, is hosting its fourth annual “Roundball Classic” and first-ever all women’s event on Saturday, December 7, 2024 in Washington, D.C. This unique series features one full day of fast-paced basketball designed to further elevate women’s basketball and provide a platform to combat racism that lies within sports.
The CVR Roundball Classic triple header kicks off at 11:00 a.m. ET with Norfolk State University coached by Larry Vickers vs. Saint Louis University coached by Rebecca Tillet. The action continues with Arizona State University coached by Natasha Adair vs Maryland Eastern Shore University coached by Malikah Willis at 1:45 p.m. ET followed by Georgetown University coached by Darnell Haney vs. Colgate University coached by Ganiyat Adeduntan at 4:30 p.m. ET. All games will be held at the Entertainment & Sports Arena in Washington, D.C.
Arizona State University Head Coach Natasha Adair returns to Washington, D.C. after serving as head coach of Georgetown University from 2014-2017 and brings with her four current players from the DMV area including Kadida Toure, Tyi Skinner, Jayln Brown, and Kennedy Fauntleroy.
“We are honored to participate in the Coaches vs. Racism game against the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. This event is an important platform to raise awareness about social justice and to demonstrate the power of sports in bringing people together,” said Arizona State University Head Women’s Basketball Coach Natasha Adair. “It’s vital for our team to understand their role as leaders and advocates for change. By taking part in this game, we are not just competing on the court but standing united in support of inclusivity, respect, and equity. This aligns with our mission to develop skilled student-athletes who are also compassionate, socially aware leaders.”
CVR is dedicated to combating racism through sports. As part of its mission, the organization mobilizes coaches in the pro ranks as well as collegiate and amateur levels across the country to create an action-filled, educational and grassroots approach to inspire cultural and societal change in the world of sports. CVR has teamed with several Division I schools, college coaches, HBCU schools, and professional sports teams to promote awareness of Social Injustice, Economic Divide, Equality, Reform, and Systemic Racism (SEERS) in sports. Together, the groups strive to create a positive sports environment for all players by using education, conversation and community to build equality and understanding. The non-profit also works with coaches to ensure all players have access to the tools and resources necessary to develop student athletes to their full potential and level the playing field.
“Coaches Vs. Racism was built to shine a spotlight on systemic racism and bridge the racial divide through sports,” said Darryl Woods, Executive Director of Coaches Vs. Racism. “This year, we wanted to host the Roundball Classic with an all-women’s tournament, showcasing six high level basketball teams and further elevate the women’s game while also providing a platform for meaningful discussions around important topics like reform, equality, social justice and more.”
CVR also recently launched the “Good Start” program, an initiative aimed at addressing the financial barriers that prevent students from completing their higher education. This scholarship fund specifically targets students at colleges and universities who are in jeopardy of dropping out due to financial hardship. By providing scholarships and supporting diversity, the program aims to create a more equitable and inclusive academic landscape where every student has the opportunity to thrive.
For the latest information and to buy tickets, go to www.coachesvsracism.org. Follow the conversation on Instagram.
