Two-day celebration of comedy and charity brings laughter and community impact to NYC
In a city that celebrates both basketball and comedy with unmatched enthusiasm, a unique two-day event is bridging these worlds for a meaningful cause. Starting Friday, Nov. 15, at the Gotham Comedy Club in Chelsea, Manhattan, this collaboration unites comedians, athletes, and fans, with proceeds supporting the Mothers of Professional Basketball Players, Inc. (MPBP, Inc.), a nonprofit devoted to empowering communities and providing essential support to the families of professional athletes.
On Friday night, comedy enthusiasts can expect a show packed with laughs, hosted by Brooklyn's own John Salley . Known for his prowess on the court as a four-time NBA champion, Salley is equally at home on stage, bringing his comedic flair to audiences as master of ceremonies. The lineup is a blend of established talent and rising stars, including Def Comedy Jam's Alonzo "Hamburger" Jones, Paul C. Morrissey ("Late Show with David Letterman"), Forrest Shaw, Christina Walksinshaw, and Canada's Nitish Sakhuja. Each of these performers is set to deliver routines that will be recorded live for a Comedy Records album release, with proceeds from the event directed entirely to MPBP, Inc.
Founded in 1996 by Charlotte Brandon and 22 other mothers, MPBP, Inc. has grown from a close-knit support group into a nationwide network that advocates for the families of professional basketball players. The organization has long worked to empower its members through volunteerism and charity, addressing challenges that these mothers encounter while helping their children navigate high-stakes sports careers. The support provided by MPBP, Inc. has been a lifeline for many, offering essential resources to families often thrust into the complexities of the sports industry.
Salley and his roster of comedic talent are hoping to draw attention to the organization's mission, a goal that the second day of the event will highlight further. On Sunday, Nov. 17, the energy shifts from the comedy club to the basketball court at LaGuardia Community College. Here, comedians from the New York Comedy Festival and retired NBA and WNBA stars will meet for a charity basketball game. Head coach Linda Shanklin, MPBP, Inc. president and mother of NBA star Andre Iguodala, will lead the team of comedy stars and pro athletes in an afternoon of fun, competition, and fundraising.
Among the former pros taking to the court are Coach Daynia La-Force, mother of LA Clippers player Terance Mann; and NBA legends Albert King, Sam Worthen, "Smush" Parker, and WNBA veteran Michelle Reed. Adding to the event's allure is a pre-game podcast, Courtside Moms, hosted by Daynia La-Force and Wendy Sparks, mother of Khem Birch, followed by a halftime show featuring Midori & Friends, a nonprofit that champions music education for underserved youth in New York City. The event will also include a silent auction and trophy presentation, for an afternoon packed with entertainment and purpose.
MPBP's efforts focus not only on family support but also on personal empowerment. At the heart of its mission is the "Don't Forget About You" program, which promotes holistic well-being for women by addressing mental, emotional, spiritual, physical, and social health. This program aims to provide a solid foundation for women who are often tasked with caring for others by reinforcing the importance of self-care to maintain resilience and support their communities.
The weekend promises to be an inspiring blend of humor, sportsmanship, and community support, reminding attendees of the impact that can be achieved when different worlds come together for a meaningful cause.
Tickets for both events are available through Showclix. For more details about the organization, visit MPBP's website . The schedule is:
Comedy Night: Friday, Nov. 15, 7 p.m., Gotham Comedy Club
Charity Basketball Game: Sunday, Nov. 17, 1 p.m., LaGuardia Community College
