Continental backs show basketball in isles
The most extensive schedule of show basketball in the history of Micronesia is backed by the region’s number one carrier — Continental Airlines.
Continental Airlines announced it would be sponsoring the Harlem Ambassadors’ 2001 Pacific Tour, which would perform 13 games in Hawaii, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, Guam, the Commonwealth of Northern Marianas and the Republic of Guam.
As well as brandishing their entertaining style of basketball, the Harlem Ambassadors will also be holding motivational school assemblies to encourage the youth of Micronesia to remain drug-free.
The entourage will travel exclusively on Continental Airlines from Los Angeles to Honolulu and to each of its Micronesian stops in Saipan, Rota, Guam, Yap, Palau, Chuuk, Pohnpei, Kosrae and Majuro.
The Harlem Ambassadors Basketball Show features high-flying slam dunks, dazzling ball-handling, and comedy routines led by Lade Majic, the recognized Queen of Show Basketball.
The only women playing coach on an all men’s professional team, Ms. Majic has played more show basketball games than any women in history. She competes against opposing men players in a nightly basis and represents a great positive role model for young girls.
Continental Staff Vice President of Sales and Promotions Wally Dias said the airline routinely makes it a point to assist with special projects for Micronesia’s youth.
“World-class entertainment with a positive, drug-free message — what a powerful way to inspire our youth. Continental is proud to be part of this production to bring these talented athletes and performers to the islands of Micronesia,” Mr. Dias said.
For his part, Harlem Ambassadors President Dale Moss said, “We are overwhelmed with the response that we have received from these Pacific locations and expect packed gyms and a great response from the public.
In Saipan, game time for the Harlem Ambassadors is at 7:00 p.m. on May 12, 2001 at the Ada Gym. The players will arrive on Saipan on May 11th, and will visit a few of the schools on that day. They will also make a guest appearance at the beginning of the Cancer Society Relay for Life event at Hopwood field on Friday evening at 7:00 p.m.
Tickets for the Harlem Ambassadors Show Basketball game are now on sale at the PIC front desk, Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium, and Saipan Mayors Office.
The team will also play a game on Rota at 7:00 p.m. on May 10, 2001. Contact the Rota Mayor’s Office or Sports and Recreation for further information.
The cost is $15.00 for adults, $8.00 for children. A group of three children can buy the ticket at $5.00 each. Discounts are also available for special groups/teams.
Aside from Continental Airlines, the event is also made possible thanks to the support of Toyota Rent A Car, Pacific Islands Club, PIA , and the Rota Mayors Office.
For further information contact Bill Sakovich at 234-1001 or Vic Pangelinan at 234-6208, or any member of the NM Sports Challenge Committee.
