MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) – Memphis welcomed tons of basketball fans from near and far this weekend. To make them feel more comfortable in the Bluff City, Beale Street was transformed into a basketball court Saturday afternoon.
Basketball has been the center of attention for several days here in Memphis, particularly on Beale Street. There were games on the Fed-Ex forum and some games took place on Beale with some familiar faces.
Fans, visitors and Memphians alike descended on Beale Street for Starry Hoops Madness.
“All clear, all clear, all clear baby,” former Memphis Grizzlies player Tony Allen said.
Starry Hoops Madness is a pop-up event that came to Bluff City for its first stop, before taking a trip across the country.
“It’s a good thing that they’re doing this type of thing for us,” said Heather Bronc, who competed in the three-point contest.
Star sodas, music and people filled Beale Street Saturday afternoon and while some stood on the sidelines, others took advantage of the opportunity to shoot hoops against former Memphis Grizzlies players like Tony Allen, Rudy Gay and Mario Chalmers.
“I’m excited. I’ve made a few comments that I feel like I’m one of the best shooters in the world, so this is my opportunity to prove it now,” Chalmers said.
“We just wanted to go out and have fun. We both played basketball together at school, we love the Grizzlies, it was fun,” said Baylee Newclumb, who participated in the three-point competition.
Even Memphis Mayor Paul Young had a go in the 3-point contest. He said events like this will help Memphis grow.
“We need opportunities like this to get people out and bring that spirit and energy to the city,” Young said.
Allen said he was excited to see Memphis come together for an event and just have fun.
“Come here, suit up, be peaceful, have fun, shoot some jump shots. Starry madness. I mean, it’s all love,” he said.
Starry, the Soda Company, hopes to bring this back to Memphis next year to make it an annual event.
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