The MAM Classic is this city's longest running youth basketball tournament.
In 1991 Dr. Larry Edwards, a physical education instructor at the University of Memphis, created the tournament to foster community awareness among various areas of Memphis, both urban and suburban.
The tournament has undergone many name changes since its inception, renamed the Peepers Optical Tournament and then the MAM Christmas Classic.
Now, in 2022 the MAM Classic has become a holiday tradition for many youth teams in Memphis.
Over 100 recreational, church, and school teams for boys and girls ages 8-18 participate in the tournament each year. Teams will battle it out in various locations throughout Shelby County, with championship games being played on the FedEx Forum Floor. In addition to the FedEx Forum Floor, teams will play at the Memphis Sports and Events Center at Liberty Park on Saturday, December 17! This will be the first time the new event space is put to use.
This year’s tournament will be from December 17th-22nd. The registration deadline for teams is December 7.
This year’s tournament is only possible with valuable team players and sponsors!
Presenting – Memphis Grizzlies
Hall of Fame – ProLift Rigging
MVP – Delta Dental
All-Star – BODYARMOR, International Paper, Jim Keras Subaru Hacks Cross, JP Morgan Chase, Kids Across America, & Warren Construction and Renovation
Tournament proceeds will support year-round Memphis Athletic Ministries’ programming, which seeks to coach, grow, and lead the youth of Memphis through its various programs.
If you’d like to register your team in the MAM Classic, click here.
