Caitlin Clark, Sophie Cunningham, and Larry Bird Unite to Launch “Crossroads Classic” — A Historic Basketball Alliance Is Born!
Three icons, one court, and a vision to transform the game — The “Crossroads Classic” is more than just a tournament. It’s a movement.

She's also somebody kind of like Larry Bird was" - Stephen A. Smith likens Caitlin Clark's swagger to that of Celtics legend

In one of the most ambitious and unifying announcements in modern basketball, WNBA stars Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham, alongside NBA legend Larry Bird, have officially launched the “Crossroads Classic” — a groundbreaking, co-branded basketball initiative set to debut next year.

Designed to bridge generational, gender, and league gaps, the Crossroads Classic promises to deliver a once-in-a-lifetime basketball experience, uniting players, fans, and legends across the men’s and women’s game in Indiana — the heartland of hoops.

“Basketball is in our blood here,” said Larry Bird. “This event will celebrate where the game has been, and more importantly, where it’s going.”

🏀 WHAT IS THE CROSSROADS CLASSIC?

The “Crossroads Classic” is a multi-day basketball showcase, combining:

WNBA and NBA exhibition matchups

Mixed-gender 3v3 tournaments featuring pros, rookies, and legends

Youth development camps

Panel discussions on equality, NIL (Name, Image, Likeness), and mental health in sports

The event will culminate in a main event game held at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, with all proceeds going toward youth basketball programs in underserved communities.

“This isn’t just another event — this is about legacy, opportunity, and connection,” said Caitlin Clark. “We’re building something bigger than a game.”

🤝 THE POWER TRIO: WHY CLARK, CUNNINGHAM, AND BIRD?

Caitlin Clark, currently the most watched rookie in WNBA history, brings a new generation of fans and a fearless voice for women’s sports.
Sophie Cunningham, known for her gritty play and leadership, adds a layer of competitive fire and mentorship to the mix.
And Larry Bird, an Indiana native and NBA legend, lends history, wisdom, and gravity to the mission.

“These two women are the future,” said Bird. “I’m just here to make sure they have the platform they deserve — and that the world’s watching.”

💬 SOPHIE CUNNINGHAM: “WE’RE DONE WAITING FOR SEATS — WE’RE BUILDING THE TABLE”

In an electrifying moment during the press conference, Cunningham shared what she hopes the event inspires:

“We’ve waited long enough for attention, airtime, and fairness. The Crossroads Classic says we’re not waiting anymore. We’re creating it ourselves.”

Fans erupted in applause, with the quote quickly trending on social media.

📍 WHY INDIANA?

Beyond Bird’s deep roots, Indiana is seen as neutral ground, where basketball culture runs deep and respect for the game transcends gender.

“If there’s any place where boys and girls pick up the ball the same way — it’s here,” said Clark.
“You walk into a gym in Indiana, and the only thing that matters is how hard you play.”

🎟️ WHEN AND HOW TO WATCH

The first Crossroads Classic is scheduled for July 2025, just after the WNBA All-Star break and NBA Summer League.
The event will be streamed globally on ESPN, NBA TV, and select digital platforms, with behind-the-scenes content available on YouTube and TikTok.

Tickets go on sale in February 2025, with priority access for students and local Indiana residents.

🧠 MORE THAN A GAME: PANELS, CAMPS & COMMUNITY

The Crossroads Classic will also feature:

Leadership talks by current and retired athletes

Workshops on NIL rights for young athletes

Mental health and resilience panels led by sports psychologists

Free basketball clinics for girls ages 8–14

“We want to give kids the tools we wish we had,” said Clark. “Not just to play — but to lead.”

🌍 SOCIAL IMPACT: WHERE THE MONEY GOES

All profits from the Crossroads Classic will be donated to:

Grassroots youth basketball programs

Inner-city court renovations

Scholarships for girls pursuing sports journalism, coaching, or sports medicine

“Every dollar goes back to the future of the game,” Bird emphasized.

🏁 FINAL THOUGHTS: A NEW LEGACY IS FORMING

With names like Clark, Cunningham, and Bird behind it, the Crossroads Classic isn’t just an event — it’s a generational statement.

It says the game belongs to everyone.
It says women’s basketball deserves center court.
And it says that when legends and leaders unite,
change doesn’t just happen — it explodes.

Because basketball isn’t just about who scores more.
It’s about who dares to build more —
for those who will play next. 🏀