On January 20, 2025, the Memphis Grizzlies hosted the 23rd annual Earl Lloyd Sports Legacy Symposium, an event that continues to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This year’s symposium brought together a touted panel of honorees, featuring Olympic gold medalist Tommie Smith, basketball legend Cheryl Miller and former NBA star Amar’e Stoudemire. The event highlighted their contributions to civil rights and social justice while emphasizing the importance of continuing Dr. King’s mission.
Tommie Smith, most famously known for his iconic black-gloved fist salute during the medal ceremony at the 1968 Olympics, revisited the National Civil Rights Museum ahead of the symposium along with Miller and Stoudemire.
Reflecting on the historical significance of his actions, Smith said, “People out there, no matter how old you are, don’t be unaware of the things you haven’t yet learned. Nothing is bigger than life.”
Smith also discussed having faith in his decision, reciting Hebrews 11:1, which states “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen.”
During the panel discussion, Cheryl Miller expressed her admiration for Smith’s courage and the sacrifices he made. She stated, “Young man, would you have done that if you had known the price you would pay? Who was there to hold you while your tears were shed? God bless you for the courage.”
The entire audience watched in stony silence as Smith visibly grew emotional as he reflected on his decision to stand for what he thought was right during the 1968 Olympics. It was as if he relived the moment in front of the packed crowd, and his face bare the look of what he endured as a result of his actions.
Amar’e Stoudemire emphasized the importance of cultivating leadership within communities to carry forward the vision of equality and justice. Encouraging attendees to think about their roles in shaping a better future, he asked, “How do we create more positive leaders so that everyone can lead in their own space, building communities one by one?”
Stoudemire discussed how at 21 years old, he founded the Amar’e and Alexis Stoudemire Foundation, which benefits at-risk youths and presents them with positive opportunities to prove themselves. While basketball serves as one of the biggest facets of the program, winning the “game” of life is what Stoudemire aspires to see young people, and people of all ages, accomplish.
Throughout the symposium, the honorees reflected on the progress made since Dr. King’s time, while also stressing the work that remains to be done. Smith reminded the audience of the responsibility each person has to make a difference, saying, “We must continue teaching kids that they are somebody. They owe it to society to make a difference and ensure history doesn’t repeat itself.”
The event concluded with the presentation of the National Civil Rights Museum Sports Legacy Awards before the tipoff of the Memphis Grizzlies game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The awards recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to civil rights and social justice through sports. The honorees expressed gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed their commitment to advocacy and education.
