The Famous Classic Tournament began in 1983 with a Boys Tournament won by Tates Creek. The Girls joined in in 1986. Each team in each tournament was guaranteed three games. The girls tournament ran one week and the boys the next. NKU or Thomas More College hosted the finals. Melvin was the grand master. He produced a wonderful program that highlighted each of the teams and a records/history of the event. There was a tip-off luncheon or dinner, and a Suite sized hospitality room at the Drawbridge Inn, back when the Drawbridge was the place to be.

 

It was held at various sites throughout Northern Kentucky and did bring in some top flight talent. I was the Brossart Girls Bakstball coach during that era and enjoyed competing with teams that we had only heard about.

 

There was a "Famous Stars of the Week" program that was run in conjunction with the tournament, and a banquet for the honorees at the end of the season. There were a myriad of scholarships awarded, and a Famous Star of the Year named for both boys and girls. Mel tells great stories about what it took to attract some of the high profile speakers to the event. Al McGuire spoke in 1989 and Rick Pitino later. I remember Rich Karlis giving a nice talk (UC grad-Denver Broncos kicker).

 

It was truly an event that was "all about the kids."

 

 

Used to work there back in my 20's. It was the place to be, that's for sure. Hadn't heard that place mentioned forever

Anyone broadcasting the games?