Stars turn out for CIA

3:17pm Monday 19th May 2008

Some of the biggest names in British basketball were on parade at last weekend's Family Festival at Canons Leisure Centre in Mitcham, writes Nick Pryce.

Run by the Christians In Action (CIA) Basketball Club, the event featured several special guests.

Sky Sports presenter Kevin Cadle, the most successful coach in British basketball history, was there to lead the Old School All Stars.

His side included former Los Angeles Lakers star Steve Bucknall, who now coaches the London Capitals, and England's most capped player, Ronnie Baker.

"It's a big thing for the guys like Kevin and Steve just to get involved and back on the court," said CIA player and event organiser Luke Bowler.

"It was exciting, especially for the kids who have heard of these guys, but perhaps never seen them lace-up their boots," he added.

Cadle's team faced the New School' All Stars, who included Manchester Magic's Stefan Gill, and Benji Lawmann, fresh from a college season with South Carolina.

The money raised from Saturday will go a long way towards helping the CIA, which was set up 13 years ago, reach more children in the London area.

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