About the Showboat Classic
Started by DJ Big Stew of Beef Stew Radio as a way to redirect at-risk youths towards positive endeavors, The Showboat Classic is steeped in 20 years of Harlem tradition.The Showboat Classic Sports & Education Inc. has been promoting youth sports and education while combating juvenile delinquency and community deterioration since its founding in 1998. This outdoor, summer basketball tournament in East Harlem provides a positive outlet for young men and women, keeping them away from gangs.At its peak, the Showboat Classic hosted an incredible 60 teams across East and West divisions, drawing players from New York City’s five boroughs as well as New Jersey, New Rochelle, Long Island, and Connecticut. The tournament has helped thousands of kids gain admittance to colleges like Seton Hall, Georgetown, Hawaii, Nebraska, Colgate, Penn State, and Arkansas.The Showboat Classic games have become legendary, with classic match-ups like the “All-Stars Game” that was so good they kept adding time to the clock. It has featured basketball icons like Pee Wee Kirkland, Jim Jones, and Pearl Washington. Many alumni went on to play professionally or became respected community figures across various professions.Despite happening during intense gang conflicts, the Showboat was considered a safe haven where rivals could play on the same team. It cultivated a unique culture around “Chicken Noodle” dances and high-flying dunk contests that attracted celebrities, politicians, announcers and fans of all ages and races.The tournament’s impact has been far-reaching, with alumni starting similar events nationwide using its motto. It has been featured on TV in other countries such as France. Earning a Showboat jersey holds immense street cred as a throwback to this iconic brand with a Rucker Park-level of allure.In 2020 it all came grinding to a halt when the nation was put on lockdown and businesses crumbled under the weight of world events.Then, in 2024, The Showboat Classic successfully made its comeback because The Showboat has a mission and is here to stay.