The Memphis Grizzlies will spotlight a “trio of Olympians” at their 23rd Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Game on Monday, January 20, 2025, at FedExForum.
This year’s honorees — Tommie Smith, Cheryl Miller, and Amar’e Stoudemire — all have Olympic medals. Smith and Miller took home Olympic gold earlier in their careers, while Stoudemire earned a bronze medal. But each would translate their athletic excellence into enduring contributions to civil rights, equity, and community service.
Presented by Ford and area Mid-South Ford Dealers, . This event honors Dr. King’s enduring legacy through a series of activities, culminating in a matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves at 1:30 PM CST.
A highlight of the celebration is the recognition of the 2025 National Civil Rights Museum Sports Legacy Award honorees: Tommie Smith, Cheryl Miller, and Amar’e Stoudemire. In the weeks leading up to the event, the Grizzlies are releasing interview videos with each honoree every Thursday, offering fans an intimate look into their lives and contributions. The series begins with Cheryl Miller’s interview on January 2, followed by Amar’e Stoudemire on January 9, and Tommie Smith on January 16.
Honoree Profiles:
Tommie Smith: Renowned for his iconic Black Power salute during the 1968 Olympics, Smith’s gesture became a symbol of the civil rights movement. Beyond his athletic achievements, he has dedicated his life to activism and education, promoting human rights and social change.
Cheryl Miller: A trailblazer in women’s basketball, Miller’s illustrious career includes being a Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer and an Olympic gold medalist. After her playing days, she transitioned into sports broadcasting and coaching, becoming a prominent commentator and mentor, significantly contributing to the growth of women’s sports.
Amar’e Stoudemire: A six-time NBA All-Star, Stoudemire’s post-basketball endeavors are noteworthy. He founded the Amar’e and Alexis Stoudemire Foundation, focusing on youth outreach to inspire and assist at-risk youth. Additionally, he has engaged in various philanthropic efforts, including partnerships to promote education and disaster relief, reflecting his commitment to community service.
The celebration also features the Earl Lloyd Sports Legacy Symposium, presented by the Hyde Family Foundation, from 12 to 1 PM on game day. This symposium offers attendees the opportunity to hear directly from the honorees as they discuss their experiences and Dr. King’s impact on their lives. The event is free for game ticket holders, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Through these events, the Memphis Grizzlies continue to honor Dr. King’s legacy, fostering community engagement and highlighting the intersection of sports and social justice.
For more information and a detailed schedule of events, please visit the official Memphis Grizzlies website. To watch the interviews with the honorees, visit the Memphis Grizzlies’ official YouTube channel.
