Malone to honor past champions

Malone School will dedicate its newly-renovated gymnasium Thursday with a ceremony honoring the great history and tradition of the Tigers’ basketball program.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will begin at 5 p.m., with an “old-timer’s” game set to tip at 6 p.m., featuring former Malone basketball players.

But before many of the Tigers’ former basketball greats take the floor to play, they’ll be honored for the 14 state titles they have produced — 13 by the Malone boys, and one by the girls.

As well as the players from those teams, cheerleaders, coaches and principals during each era are also expected to attend.

The Malone boys won state championships in 1952-54, 1961, 1977, 1983, 1991, and then five straight from 1994-1998 — the only public school ever to accomplish five consecutive titles.

Only Miami Senior has won more state titles (18) than Malone.

The Malone girls produced their state title in 2001.

Halftime activities include Malone’s “Little Ballers” performing such skills as dribbling, shooting, and passing.

A raffle will be held for a $50 Wal-Mart card.

A commemorative souvenir book will be sold, featuring team pictures of all 13 Championship teams.

DVDs will be available after the event.

Team members will show off their championship rings, including Naton Williams, who has a whopping five rings.

Cori Tiggs and Tyrone Tiggs have four rings, while Reggie Baker, Anthony Turner, Carson Lassiter, and Ron Bellamy all have three each.

Malone’s championship coaches are James Pavy, Homer Deuel, Marvin Lassiter, John Ellerbee, Matt Anderson, and Doug Powell (girls).

Fans are encouraged to wear championship tee-shirts, bring championship car tags, and any other Malone Tigers’ paraphernalia.

Admission is $2, with proceeds going to support the Malone athletic department.

Concessions will also be available.