In celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Prudential Center in New Jersey will host an inaugural women’s basketball doubleheader, featuring UCLA taking on Baylor and Texas facing Maryland. The event, set to take place on January 20, honors the legacy of civil rights leader Coretta Scott King, a pioneering advocate for women’s equality and empowerment.
UCLA women’s basketball coach Cori Close expressed her team’s excitement to participate in the event, citing the opportunity to compete against top-notch opponents while supporting a meaningful cause. “It’s an incredible privilege to be part of this special event, which not only showcases exceptional basketball talent but also pays tribute to the remarkable work of the King family,” Close said.
The Bruins will also face Rutgers just three days later, adding to their busy schedule. Interestingly, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. has a strong connection to New Jersey, having lived in Camden from 1948 to 1951 while serving as a seminarian in Philadelphia.
Bernice King, CEO of The King Center, emphasized the significance of honoring her mother’s legacy through this event. “Coretta Scott King was a trailblazer in her own right, dedicating her life to creating a more just and equitable world,” King stated. “Her tireless advocacy for women’s empowerment and equality makes this event a fitting tribute to her enduring message of love and nonviolence.”
The Coretta Scott King Classic is poised to become a premier platform for female athletes, promoting gender equality in sports and celebrating the achievements of women who have paved the way for future generations. As Bernice King noted, “Recognition of female empowerment is on the rise, and this event will further cement my mother’s indelible legacy.”
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