Retired NBA Players and Community Leaders Reflect on the Lasting Impact of Detroit's Historical Basketball Gym, St. Cecilia, in the Film Premiere for 'The Saint: Where Stars Are Made, Not Born'

    SOUTHFIELD, MI, September 24, 2019 /24-7PressRelease/ -- "The Saint: Where Stars Are Made Not Born" is a documentary film that highlights the tremendous impact one basketball gym had in a local Detroit community for nearly three decades. The film premieres on Saturday, September 28, 2019, at Triumph Church North Campus in Southfield, MI. The address is 15600 J.L. Hudson Dr. RSVP for free admission at http://bit.ly/thesaintfilm. Doors open at 11:30 am.

The St. Cecilia gym was opened by Sam Washington as a safe haven for teens in his neighborhood after the 1967 riots. With the help of Detroit Piston Dave Bing, it soon became an iconic sports hub to watch some of the hottest basketball players in the state compete on any given weekend. Basketball coaches statewide knew this was the place to improve their players' skills and scout diverse talent for upcoming seasons. "It has to be looked upon as a privilege, and even an honor, to play in that building," said Greg Kelser.

More than 100 players from high schools and colleges in Michigan played at St. Cecilia and made it to the NBA including Magic Johnson, George Gervin, Greg Kelser, and Scott Perry. According to former Detroit Piston Dave Bing, "It was the mecca of basketball, not only in Michigan but in the whole Midwest." This film is sponsored by UAW Ford, 1Vision Media Group, B.A.L.L. Foundation, Sam Washington Foundation, and National Basketball Legends Retired Players Association.

Randy Henry and Sam Washington, Jr. executive produced the film. All proceeds from the event will be donated to their respective organizations, the B.A.L.L. Foundation, and the Sam Washington Foundation. Both non-profits work with youth to teach life skills through athletics. We invite all current and former basketball players and coaches from Metro Detroit, Pontiac, Saginaw, Flint, Lansing, and throughout the state of Michigan to be part of this historic event. We have special seating available for groups and teams. Contact us to reserve your space.

We are interested in booking media appearances for radio, television, and print news to promote the film and educate the community before the premiere event. Earl Cureton, Greg Kelser, and Sam Washington are all featured in the documentary and available for interviews. Please contact [email protected] or 248-291-7923 for more information.

Check out the film preview: https://youtu.be/OCOYZe-yVBU.
Event flyer: http://bit.ly/thesaintflyer

The B.A.L.L. Foundation's mission is to create social and life-changing experiences for youth ages 7-17 by providing a learning environment that enhances life skills through the influence of basketball. Through basketball camps, lectures and training classes, children are equipped with essential life skills that are instrumental in addressing core problems by maintaining good health, education, and self-esteem. We provide children with lessons in strengthening math and reading skills, as well as customized plans for diet, nutrition, and exercise. We also address the problem of childhood obesity and enrich the lives of young individuals by providing a fun learning environment.

# # #