7th Annual I.C. Change Basketball Showcase: A Life-Changing Platform for Young Athletes

Photo via Ian Cunningham

For the seventh consecutive year, Northeast Ohio proudly hosted the I.C. Change Basketball Showcase—a free, transformative event designed to support student-athletes in pursuit of college basketball dreams. The showcase, founded by Ian Cunningham, a former detention officer and now Activities Coordinator at the Cuyahoga County Juvenile Detention Center, continues to be a beacon of hope and opportunity.

“This has always been bigger than basketball,” says Cunningham. And it shows.

A Mission with Purpose

What sets this event apart is its unwavering commitment to mentorship, exposure, and long-term support. The I.C. Change Showcase isn’t a one-day tournament—it’s a movement. From helping players gain visibility to offering resources that aid in college recruitment, the showcase is deeply rooted in community and driven by love.

This year marked a location shift from Twinsburg, OH to Blossom Hill Field House in Brecksville, chosen for its affordability and shared commitment to the mission. Despite obstacles—including last-minute injuries and player withdrawals—the talent level remained high, with 64 student-athletes participating. Players came from Ohio, across the U.S., and even as far as Canada and the Bahamas.

More Than Just Games

All players were guaranteed at least three games, plus the opportunity to participate in skills competitions like the 2-Man Shooting Challenge and 1v1 King of the Court. The energy was kept high thanks to music by DJ Velle, one of Northeast Ohio’s top DJs.

The event also doubled as a training ground for future referees, in partnership with the Fellowship of Christian Officials led by Nick Creme and college referee Troy Denefield, who used the showcase to evaluate up-and-coming high school referees.

The day began with skills training by Bag Work Academy out of Akron, OH and featured three full courts of intense basketball action. Free food, trophies, and invaluable exposure rounded out the day.

Special Guests and Awards

Former NBA point guard William “Smush” Parker gave a 40-minute motivational talk and spent the entire day with players, coaches, and families—proving once again that the heart of the showcase lies in its people.

Gilbert Williams – Father of NBA player Grant Williams was in attendance and shared a word of encouragement with the participants.

For the first time in seven years, $3,000 in scholarships was awarded through the Mary E. Case Scholarship Fund, thanks to donations from past participants and their families. Special thanks to Audra Jackson, a beloved supporter who lost her battle with cancer, and Doug Eikenberry, whose son once participated.

2025 Scholarship Recipients:

Allen Mallory (6’6 PF – Miami Hamilton, USCAA) – $1,250

Damairus Logan (6’2 SG – Jamestown CC) – $500

Cameron Mahone (6’3 SG – Kent State Tuscarawas, USCAA) – $1,250

Additional Showcase Awards:

2-Man Shooting Challenge Winners: Riston Taylor (6’5, 2026) & Eli Ellis (6’3, 2027)

1v1 King of the Court: JD Latham (6’9, Juco transfer)

Defensive Stopper: Sean Conway (5’10, Juco transfer)

Playmaker Award: Kyle Jackson – Rayshawn Hamilton (6’5, 2026)

Mr. Hustle (Audra Jackson Award): Damairus Logan (6’2, 2025)

MVP: Calvin Marshall (6’7, Juco transfer)

College Exposure and Support

The showcase welcomed double-digit college coaches from various levels, all with free access to detailed scouting packets. Every athlete also received a personal guide to navigating the college recruiting process, curated by longtime supporter Noel Roman from Connecticut.

Grip Spritz contributed performance gear, while Deacon John Travis was honored with a plaque for his continued support. Athletic trainers were on site, coordinated by Mr. Fahey of CVCC and Cunningham’s daughter.

Year 7: Mission Accomplished

“As long as one student earns an offer, it’s all worth it,” Cunningham says humbly. “This year, we saw many more than one.”

Thanks to Cunningham’s vision, the dedication of countless volunteers, and the support of families and friends, the I.C. Change Basketball Showcase has become one of the most unique and impactful events in the country.

Free admission. Free opportunity. A future that’s anything but free—it’s earned.