The Mothers of Professional Basketball Players (MPBP) organization will hold its 2010 Annual Conference from August 6-8, 2010 in Orlando. As the unifying body for mothers of current and retired professional basketball players, this year’s conference signifies the first gathering since revamping the organization. With a new dedication to service and the greater good of the community, this year’s event will include a Mom’s Rookie Camp, Welcome Reception and Social. However, the main event for the weekend will be the first-ever “Hoopin’ for Health” Charity Basketball Game with the Professional Football Players Mothers Association (PFPMA) playing the Mothers of Professional Basketball Players on Saturday, August 7 at 6:00 p.m. at Olympia High School (4301 S. Apopka Vineland Rd., Orlando, 32835). Proceeds from the Charity Basketball game will be donated to the United Negro College Fund.
With the addition of the MPBP vs. PFPMA “Hoopin’ for Health” Charity Basketball Game, both organizations have united in the mission to inspire all women of all ages to become more active and mindful of weight related illness such as heart disease. “Mothers often think our job is done once our children are grown. However, it’s after the kids are grown when life really begins. As women, we have to keep it moving, keep our hearts strong and stay active no matter our age,” stated Flo Allen-Hopson, Mothers of Professional Basketball Players Association Member & Mother of Boston Celtics Player Ray Allen.
MPBP holds a special place in each of its Mom member’s hearts. “We currently have more than 150 mothers. We started the organization so that mothers of professional basketball players could have a support system. Our members know that they can call 150 other mothers at anytime day or night. The group was recently revised under the leadership of Lucille O’Neal to become more civic minded and help those in need” stated Allen-Hopson.
Led by Coaches Lucille O’Neal (mother of Shaquille O’Neal) and Marie Jackson (mother of retired player & current ABC commentator Mark Jackson), the MPBP team will feature Cheryl Howard (Dwight Howard), Juanita Brown (Rashard Lewis), Robin Paul (Chris Paul), Flo Allen Hopson (Ray Allen), Vanessa Hughes (Larry Hughes) and Lisa Randolph (Anthony Hughes) and more. Players on the PFPMA team will include Char McNabb (Donovan McNabb), Cheryl Foster (Deshaun Foster), Chris Johnson (Larry Johnson), Sirreta Williams (Laveranues Coles), Nancy Jones (Dhani Jones) and more. The game will also feature commentator Jerome Bettis.
Rounding out the weekend’s festivities is the annual Fashion Show coupled with the “Crown Affair” Sunday Brunch. Clothing will be donated by Saks Fifth Avenue and modeled by some of the Moms and members of MPBP. Most of the proceeds from the fashion show will be donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
MPBP signifies a collective strong body of women who are the unifying components that represent the connection to the real world and the world of professional basketball. Its mission obligates members to support the various communities where their sons and daughters live, work, and play. As the National Basketball Association (NBA) continues to send the message, “The NBA Cares” it is MPBP’s intention to exhibit the same attitude with acts of caring and philanthropy. MPBP strives to invest in the human soul through its charitable works and fundraising efforts. Last year, MPBP donated $30,000 to the University of Las Vegas Center for Academic Enrichment and Outreach Program. In 2008, the organization donated $30,000 to the Orlando Boys & Girls Club.
Tickets for the “Hoopin’ for Health” Charity Basketball Game are $15 for adults and $7 for children ages 12 and under. Tickets will be available at the door as well as at local businesses and churches.
Individual seats and tables are available for the fashion show. Fashion Show tickets are $125 per person or $1,000 for a table of 10.
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Flo Allen-Hopson at (860) 961-6462.
For more information about the Mothers of Professional Basketball Players (MPBP) organization, visit www.mpbp.com
Maybe Paul will go to Magic! 😀