The fifth annual C.M. Newton Classic will once again bring high-level college basketball to Birmingham this December, but the game is about more than what happens on the court. The C.M. Newton Classic also marks the return of the Legacy Builder Campaign, now in its fourth year, celebrating Birmingham-area nonprofits that are creating a lasting impact by honoring the late C.M. Newton’s legacy.
Following in the footsteps of C.M. Newton, who integrated Alabama men’s basketball and recruited the University’s first Black athlete, the campaign continues his legacy of courage, progress and opportunity.
Local businesses and community members were invited to nominate Birmingham-area nonprofits whose missions and programs reflect these values. Nominations required a short questionnaire about the organization, its work and how it impacted the community. Last year, more than 30 nominations were submitted, with AM3N, Breakthrough Birmingham, College Choice Foundation and Community of Hope Health Clinic recognized as finalists.
“Legacy Credit Union is committed to serving the Birmingham community,” said Leia Ragland, Assistant Vice President of Marketing and Business Development at Legacy Credit Union. “Through the Legacy Builder campaign, we’ve been able to connect with organizations who are doing incredible work in Birmingham. What started as an idea to extend the impact of the C.M. Newton Classic has become a year-round commitment to supporting nonprofits where help is needed most.”
This year, each of the four selected organizations will receive a $2,500 donation and a professionally produced video spotlighting their mission, which can also serve as a PSA.
“The Legacy Builder campaign emphasizes the power sports has off the court and carries forward a living legacy of what my father believed in,” said Martin Newton, Samford University Director of Athletics and son of C.M. Newton. “As we enter the fourth year of this campaign, I’m inspired by how it continues to grow, not only raising awareness, but also building meaningful relationships that extend well beyond game day.”
The fifth annual C.M. Newton Classic, presented by TriGreen Equipment, will feature the Alabama Crimson Tide taking on the Arizona Wildcats on December 13, 2025, at Legacy Arena at the BJCC. The game honors men’s basketball coaching legend C.M. Newton and his lasting influence on the sport and beyond.
To learn more about the C.M. Newton Classic, visit www.cmnewtonclassic.com.
There are no comments
Please login to post comments