Kids get mentorship from Grizzlies

Memphis Athletic Ministries and Sissy’s Log Cabin, the official jeweler of the Memphis Grizzlies and FedEx Forum, hosted the second consecutive mentorship event recently.

Fifty-four students joined Memphis Grizzlies players Santi Aldama and John Konchar, along with Assistant Coach Erik Schmidt and Junior Grizzlies coaches on the FedEx Forum court for interactive games, coaching and teamwork activities, according to a news release.

“This event is truly a slam dunk for our students,” said Kevin Windsor, CEO of Memphis Athletic Ministries. “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.”

Sissy’s supplied “Basketball and Bling” T-shirts for the middle-school-aged students attending the event. After the activities, each participant received a Memphis Grizzlies basketball, gifted by Sissy’s. The students were served dinner in the Sissy’s Log Cabin Lounge, received signed posters from the players, and got a chance to hear from Grizzlies assistant coach Erik Schmidt.

“As a childhood athlete, I know how important it is to provide young students with opportunities that allow them to grow, learn the value of teamwork, and build the confidence needed to pursue their dreams,” said Wyatt Jones, vice president and Sissy’s Log Cabin Memphis store manager. “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. We’re proud to help create life-changing experiences for the next generation.”

Also during the event, Wyatt Jones issued a challenge — if he missed a three-pointer, Sissy’s would donate $1,000 to Memphis Athletic Ministries.

“With some enthusiastic (and strategic) ‘boos’ from the kids, Wyatt’s shot fell short, securing the donation and plenty of cheers from the crowd,” according to the release.

Sissy’s supports local charities and fosters connections within its communities across Arkansas and Tennessee, reflecting the philanthropic vision of the company’s founder, Sissy Jones, according to the news release.