On this episode of Commonwealth Conversations, we dive into the excitement surrounding the Icons of the Game event, a historic men's college basketball doubleheader set for Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at Nassau Coliseum. We sit down with 44 Group Executive Director Jason Tilton and Co-Director Gary Charles, who share the inspiration behind this event dedicated to honoring coaching legends who broke barriers and left lasting legacies in the game of basketball.
The inaugural Icons of the Game event will pay tribute to coaching pioneers like John McLendon, Clarence “Big House” Gaines, John Chaney, and John Thompson II, celebrating their contributions both on and off the court. This special night features Seton Hall versus Hofstra, facing off for the first time in over 50 years, and UMass versus Louisiana Tech in their first-ever meeting. Each team's head coach – Shaheen Holloway, Speedy Claxton, Frank Martin, and Telvin Hester – brings a legacy of leadership and community impact, continuing the trail blazed by the legends being honored. Join us as we explore the stories, passion, and purpose driving this historic night in college basketball.