The second annual Summer Slam is set to light up the Lobdell family barn in Skaneateles on July 22, bringing together fans, alumni, and the broader Central New York community for a day of basketball celebration.
Hosted by the One Orange Alliance and Vinny Lobdell, the event honors the legacy of Syracuse basketball while spotlighting the next era under new head coach Gerry McNamara. Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony will join the conversation, offering a rare glimpse of the program’s future alongside members of the 2026‑27 roster.
Attendees can expect an on‑court dialogue with Coach McNamara and Anthony, alongside classic contests such as a dunk competition and a three‑point shootout. The festivities will also feature gourmet food, an open bar, live and silent auctions, and a fireworks finale that caps off the evening.
Tickets and sponsorship packages are now available, providing fans with multiple ways to engage with the event while supporting a cause that extends beyond the hardwood. Proceeds will bolster NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities for student‑athletes, reinforcing the alliance’s commitment to empowering the next generation of Orange players.
Community Impact and NIL Partnerships
The partnership with One Orange Alliance underscores a broader mission: to create tangible pathways for college athletes to profit from their personal brands while remaining part of the Syracuse community. By integrating NIL initiatives into a high‑profile public event, the organizers aim to raise awareness and generate resources that directly benefit student‑athletes.
Beyond the thrills of competition and celebration, Summer Slam serves as a rallying point for local supporters, alumni, and regional businesses to invest in the future of Syracuse basketball. The evening promises not only memorable moments on the court but also a lasting impact on the lives of the athletes who will carry the Orange legacy forward.