A welcome event to kick off the week is a long-standing tradition for the tournament and has been continued by the MBA since taking over responsibility for the tournament in 2009. The evening is one filled with renewing old friendships, food and fun.

Anthony Bonner

Anthony Bonner is a former professional basketball player who was a 1st round draft pick, the 23^rd pick by the Sacramento Kings in the 1990 NBA Draft. He played in the NBA (Sacramento Kings, New York Knicks & Orlando Magic) and abroad throughout Europe amassing a 16-year career.

A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Anthony attended St. Louis public schools through high school before earning a basketball scholarship at St. Louis University. When Anthony graduated from SLU he was the All-Time leading scorer and rebounder in SLU history. He was also the all-time leader in steals, minutes and games started. Anthony was inducted into the Billiken Hall of Fame in 1996. He graduated with a degree in Communications.

Anthony played 6 seasons in the NBA for the Kings, Knicks and Majic, playing in more than 300 games, scoring more than 2000 points and 1700 rebounds. Anthony also played professionally all around the world in Italy, Greece, Turkey. Spain, etc..

After basketball Anthony has been inspiring to impact people through the gospel of Jesus Christ. As a Minister (Author/Speaker) and founder of TruthTurntup International Ministries, Anthony travels the world sharing the transforming power of the word of God. Whether in the sanctuary or in a prison, on Wall Street or in a university locker room, Anthony uses his influence and the game of basketball as a platform to share the gospel of Jesus Christ. Anthony is a witness of God’s endless grace and lives by the scriptural foundation, “For with God nothing shall be impossible” (LUKE 1:37). Anthony is inspired to impact the lives of people through the gospel of Jesus Christ; ultimately making a positive impact on our culture.