2005 Year Two - Here Come the Boys

In the first year of the MLK Basketball Classic, four girls games were played. In year two, a fifth game was added with all of the games being boys games. Interest continued to grow along with media coverage of the event. PS Studios and Americopy began what has been a continued relationship by providing graphics, layouts, and printing of one of the best game programs in the country.

After the inaugural boys game of Gilbert High School vs. Phoenix Camelback, a loaded Glendale Deer Valley squad took off to a 23-0 lead over Avondale Westview and never looked back. The Skyhawks featured future all Pac-10 performer Lawrence Hill of Stanford along with Christian Polk (UTEP) and Joey Shaw (Nevada).  The 'McConnell Reunion' was next with Tucson Sahuaro Coach Dick McConnell going against his son, Mesa Dobson Coach Rick, and grandsons Matt and Mickey. The younger generations prevailed, 81-62. Cox TV broadcast the defending state champion Mesa High vs. Tempe Marcos de Niza game along with the final game of the night featuring Phoenix Brophy Prep and Tempe Corona del Sol.

Attendance increased to over 3000 spectators. Halftime presenters included ASU Head Coach Rob Evans and AIA Executive Director Harold Slemmer. A rousing rendition of the "I Have A Dream" speech was given Loren Johnson, a Mesa 5th grade student.  Interest in the event continued to grow with great coverage by the Tribune and Republic and remotes by Channels 3, 10, and 12.