'It's time for us to get this thing right': Penny Hardaway makes plea to help Memphis' youth

Jason Munz, Memphis Commercial Appeal
·2 min read
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On Thursday, in front of a roomful of people at The Halloran Centre in downtown Memphis, Penny Hardaway, made a heartfelt plea.

Speaking at a reception for the Penny Hardaway Memphis District Golf Classic – scheduled for Saturday at Tunica National Golf & Tennis – the Tigers’ basketball coach emphasized the importance of the event, which is dedicated to helping at-risk youths and their families. Hardaway said the timing couldn’t be more pertinent, especially in light of recent events in Memphis.

“Just what’s going on in the city and what’s going on with our kids, I’m honored to be part of this golf tournament because of who the recipients are,” Hardaway said. “You know, (the proceeds are) going to them. If you’re a Memphian, you understand what I’m talking about.”

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Hardaway’s hometown has been beset by violence recently. Eliza Fletcher, who was a 34-year-old pre-K teacher, wife and mother of two, was found dead Monday after having been abducted while out for an early-morning run last week. Days later, 19-year-old Ezekiel Kelly went on an hours-long, mobile shooting spree that left four dead. Three others were also shot by Kelly.

Hardaway has been the victim of gun violence himself. During his collegiate career at Memphis, the budding superstar was hit in the foot by a bullet that ricocheted off the pavement.

“It’s time for us to get this thing right, it really is,” he said. “I’m hoping to join the people of like minds and like hearts for our city to try to get this thing right, because the children really are our future, and this golf tournament (part of the Southern Heritage Classic festivities) is part of that.

“We’ll have fun Saturday, but we’ll still have work to do. Let’s try to do it together.”

Reach sports writer Jason Munz at jason.munz@commercialappeal.com or on Twitter @munzly.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Penny Hardaway makes plea to help Memphis' youth