Article written by: Choose901
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Hoop Dreams Come True for Memphis Students with Help from Sissy’s Log Cabin and Memphis Athletic Ministries
In a city that lives and breathes basketball, it’s only right that young Memphians have the opportunity to walk—and play—on the hallowed hardwood of the FedEx Forum, where our Grizzlies make magic happen. Thanks to a stellar collaboration between Sissy’s Log Cabin and Memphis Athletic Ministries (MAM), 54 students recently got to experience just that, taking part in an unforgettable mentorship event with Memphis Grizzlies players Santi Aldama and John Konchar, as well as Assistant Coach Erik Schmidt.
These middle schoolers had the unique opportunity to engage with professional athletes and receive real-time coaching and advice on teamwork, sportsmanship, and leadership. Imagine being 12 or 13 and having an NBA player teach you how to fine-tune your jump shot—that’s the type of experience that sticks for a lifetime!
Kevin Windsor, CEO of MAM, summed up the magic of the day perfectly: “This event is truly a slam dunk for our students. Thanks to the support of Sissy’s Log Cabin and the Memphis Grizzlies, we’re able to provide our program participants with impactful, memorable experiences that inspire them to become the leaders, athletes, and philanthropists of tomorrow.”
The Power of Play, Mentorship, and Giving Back
Community enrichment is core to MAM’s mission. By leveraging mentorship and sports, MAM helps shape the character and future of young people across Memphis. The organization’s partnership with Sissy’s Log Cabin is a beautiful example of what can happen when local businesses step up to invest in the next generation. After all, this isn’t only a one-off—this marks the third year of this mentorship event!
Wyatt Jones, VP and Memphis store manager for Sissy’s Log Cabin, knows firsthand the importance of opportunities like this. As a former athlete himself, he reflected on how youth programs can plant the seeds of confidence and determination. “Partnering with organizations like Memphis Athletic Ministries and the Memphis Grizzlies is central to Sissy’s Log Cabin’s commitment to the communities we serve,” Jones shared.
A City That Invests in Its Future
Since opening its doors in 1970, Sissy’s Log Cabin has expanded across Arkansas and Tennessee while maintaining deep community roots. Their ongoing support of local causes—including initiatives with the Memphis Grizzlies and MAM—demonstrates a commitment to building strong, connected neighborhoods.
At Choose901, we’re all about showcasing what makes our city shine. Events like this are evidence of what’s possible when different sectors—business, sports, and community organizations—work together to give back. These moments of mentorship and inspiration are critical in ensuring that our city’s youth see a future filled with opportunity.
How You Can Support the Movement
If you’re looking to invest in the next generation of Memphians, organizations like Memphis Athletic Ministries are a great place to start. MAM offers a variety of programs that empower youth through athletics, academics, and mentorship. You can learn more and get involved by visiting their website at mamsports.org.
Likewise, shopping with local businesses like Sissy’s Log Cabin helps fuel community initiatives that keep Memphis thriving. With six locations across the region, including one right here in the 901, Sissy’s Log Cabin provides not only world-class jewelry but also world-class care for the communities they call home. For more information, visit sissyslogcabin.com.
This partnership and event remind us of one essential truth: when Memphis comes together, we win—on and off the court.
