Organizer goes the extra miles for event

Scott Porter's dedication to Slamfest has never been more evident than this year.

Porter, who started Cape Girardeau's popular outdoor basketball tournament more than a decade ago, moved to Dallas late last year.

But Porter plans to again be on hand this weekend for the 12th annual Slamfest at Indian Park. Games begin at 8 a.m. today and Sunday, with the championship scheduled for about 5 p.m. Sunday.

"This is my baby and I wouldn't miss it," Porter said. "It's going to be my 12th year, and that's a long time doing this. It's taken on a life of its own, but it's still just as exciting."

When Porter came up with the idea for Slamfest, he simply expected a good little neighborhood gathering.

But the first Slamfest surprised Porter by attracting about 1,500 spectators. It's been a staple of outdoor hoops in Cape Girardeau ever since, annually attracting several thousand people for the two days.

"It really surprised me the first year how many people showed up," Porter said. "But it keeps growing. We've had more than 3,000 people the last few years, and I expect at least that many again."

While the competition is always impressive, Porter emphasized that the event is about much more than basketball.

The tournament raises money for the House of Prayer Educational Youth Domestic Center in Cape Girardeau. There will be refreshment booths and a gospel concert Sunday by local choirs. Central High School graduate Brese Squires, a rhythm and blues artist now living in St. Louis, will also be on hand.

Porter said about $13,000 has been raised each of the last few years, and he expects to reach that figure again.

"This whole thing is spirited around Christ. It's about community unity, bringing people together, showing love," Porter said. "We never have any trouble. People just come to play ball, watch the games or be with their friends."

The 16-team tournament annually features numerous past and present collegiate stars, and Porter said the talent level should be as good as or better than ever.

Defending champion is State Farm Insurance, headed by former Central High School and University of Missouri standout Ron Jones and featuring several local products.

State Farm defeated perennial champion Charleston in last year's finals. Charleston will again field a team, along with several squads from Cape Girardeau, Southern Illinois and other areas.

"It's always a wide open tournament, but every year there is great basketball," Porter said.

A 3-point contest will be at about 3 p.m. Sunday. There has been no slam-dunk contest the last few years. Porter said one may be held this weekend. If so, it would also be at about 3 p.m. Sunday.

mmishow@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 132