On April 8th, 2017, PYB will host its 2nd Annual April Madness Fundraiser at the Palestra, “The Cathedral of Basketball”, on the University of Pennsylvania’s campus.
Last year, 12 men’s teams participated in a day of competitive basketball, awareness building, and fundraising for our 2016 
Collegiate Summer Camp Series. Over 200 spectators from across the basketball community, including Mayor Kenney and several of the City 6 coaches, participated in the day’s events and helped PYB raise scholarship funds to support its lower income families and student-athletes during summer camp. Additionally, a highlight of the experience was a “Legends Gathering” in the Palestra’s Klatsky media room, which was put together by Delgreco Wilson as a precursor to the launch of the Philadelphia Black Basketball Hall of Fame.
Expanding on last year’s event, with the leadership of PYB’s April Madness Planning Committee and the support of Genova Burns LLC, the tournament’s presenting sponsor, April Madness 2017 will be even bigger and better! We are increasing the amount of participating teams, including a men’s competitive bracket, a men’s recreational bracket, and a women’s bracket. In partnership with our Middle School Partnership Program, PYB will provide activities for our young student-athletes and their families. We are excited to provide an opportunity for April Madness participates to interact with some of the young people their fundraising efforts will directly support. In addition, a family fun fair for kids will also be offered this year.
If you are interested in being a part of April Madness as a player, sponsor, or volunteer, please visit our website (or click: Team Registration form and/or Sponsorship Packet). The deadline for registration is March 17th.
Lastly, the evening before our April Madness Tournament, PYB will host its Pre-Tournament Reception at the Field House in Center City Philadelphia. The event is also a fundraiser for our 2017 Collegiate Summer Camp Series Scholarship Fund. Guests will have the opportunity to socialize, engage in interactive fundraising activities, learn more about PYB and its mission, meet young people from PYB’s Middle School Partnership Program, and enjoy live music, food and drink!
Tournament sponsors and VIP guests, including team captains, will receive free tickets to the Reception. Additional tickets can be reserved with a suggested donation of $50.00. If you are interested in attending, please email mobrien@phillyyouthbasketball.org or call (267) 746-1800 by March 27th.
By MaryKate O’Brien, Community Mobilization Coordinator