Blue Coats Host Wilmington Blue Bombers Tribute March 24
March 2, 2023 - NBA G League (G League)
Delaware Blue Coats News Release
WILMINGTON - The Delaware Blue Coats announced today that the team will host Wilmington Blue Bombers Tribute Night on Friday, March 24 against the Fort Wayne Mad Ants at Chase Fieldhouse. Tip off is slated for 7:00 p.m. and tickets are available now via Ticketmaster.
The Wilmington Blue Bombers were Delaware's professional basketball team from 1941-47 in the American Basketball League and from 1963-71 in the Eastern Professional Basketball League. The team won two ABL Championships (1942, 1944) and two EPBL Championships (1966, 1967).
Alumni from the team, including players and members of the front office, are schedule to attend. The Blue Coats will wear game uniforms inspired by the design elements worn in both the 1940s and 1960s. A special halftime ceremony will pay tribute to the accomplishments of the franchise. Details will be announced leading up to the event. Follow the Blue Coats on social media for updates.
Florida A&M standout and 1963 NBA Draftee Waite Bellamy is the franchise's all-time leader in scoring and won the 1969-70 EPBL MVP. He averaged a career-high 31 points 1967-68 season and was the sole mainstay on the team throughout its eight-year run.
"Just the idea that there are people still around who care enough, after so many years have passed, to put together an event such as this, is so exciting," said Bellamy. "I am looking forward to seeing teammates and foes alike to re-kindle our on-court battles and share a few life experiences to this point. Just to be remembered is an honor within itself, especially at the age of 83."
Beginning today, Streaker Sports has launched a collector's series Wilmington Blue Bombers T-shirt, available to order at the Streaker Sports online store. The shirts, issued in two colors, will be available at the Coat Closet, the team's gameday merchandise stand, at home games beginning March 14.
Philadelphia 76ers Executive Advisor and Eastern Professional Basketball League legend Sonny Hill is schedule to attend the event and take part in the celebration. "As a former player in the Eastern Professional Basketball League, I am honored to be asked to be a part of this festive event," said Hill. "During my 10-year career, I had the privilege and pleasure to play against the greats of the Wilmington Blue Bombers. March 24 will be a full circle moment for me."
"The game of basketball has a long and accomplished history in Wilmington," said Blue Coats President Larry Meli. "Our Blue Coats in the NBA G League carry the legacy of those that came before them in the American Basketball League and Eastern Professional Basketball League. It is a complete honor to have the chance to host the alumni of the Blue Bombers franchise and share their amazing story with our fans."
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