Cincinnati High School Basketball Stars Shine in All-Star Showcase Supporting Homeless Families
CINCINNATI — The University of Cincinnati is teaming up with Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS) to host the fifth annual CPS All-Star Showcase, a basketball event that not only highlights local athletic talent but also makes a meaningful impact on the community. Scheduled for April 4 from noon to 5 p.m. at UC’s Fifth Third Arena, the showcase will feature some of the district’s top high school athletes in a series of exciting competitions.
The event will include a three-point contest, a slam dunk competition, skills challenges, and an All-Star game. Beyond the court, the showcase serves a greater purpose: raising funds for Project Connect, a CPS initiative dedicated to removing educational barriers for students and families experiencing homelessness.
Tickets are priced at $10 and are available for purchase on the CPS website. Proceeds from ticket sales will directly support Project Connect. Additionally, each ticket purchase enters a CPS student into a raffle for one of two prizes: a $1,000 cash award or a $500 shopping spree at BlaCk OWned OuterWear, a Cincinnati-based clothing and lifestyle brand founded by Means Cameron.
“This event is about more than basketball,” said Lori Wright, EdD, director of CPS Strong at the University of Cincinnati. “It’s a celebration of our community and a tangible way to support CPS students and families in need. UC’s partnership with CPS through CPS Strong is rooted in our belief that our city’s strength is tied to the success of our public schools.”
Over the past four years, the CPS All-Star Showcase has raised more than $60,000 for Project Connect, making a significant difference in the lives of countless families. Wright emphasized that the event also serves as an introduction to UC for many attendees, offering a chance to showcase the university’s facilities and programs to potential future Bearcats.
“For many of our high school athletes and their families, this is their first visit to the University of Cincinnati,” Wright said. “We’re thrilled to roll out the red carpet and welcome them to our campus.”
The event is made possible by the efforts of approximately 40 UC sports administration students, who play a vital role in organizing and executing the showcase. According to David Kelley, a sports administration professor at UC, these students are far more than volunteers.
“They’re managing ticket operations, securing sponsorships, providing hospitality, and ensuring the event runs smoothly,” Kelley said. “Their hard work and professionalism transform this from a basketball game into a community-changing experience.”
The CPS All-Star Showcase is a unique blend of sports, education, and philanthropy, offering a platform for young athletes to shine while supporting a worthy cause. As the event continues to grow, its impact on both the athletes and the community becomes increasingly significant.
— Reported by Nexio News
