Cam Newton Kicks Off Big Atlantic Classic - Beckley, Bluefield & Lewisburg News, Weather, Sports

Cam Newton Kicks Off Big Atlantic Classic

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BECKLEY -

Folks attending this year's Big Atlantic Classic basketball dinner got some encouraging words from Heisman trophy winner and former number one draft choice Cam Newton.

"Hopefully anything that I say will be of some encouragement to somebody," Newton said.

The Carolina Panther Quarterback's message to the audience at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center was simple.

"I'm just going to stress the mistakes that I've had and that's the only way I know how to speak," said the quarterback.


While it's great to see a celebrity in the area, all the athletes were focused on the upcoming games.

"We're going to play some tough teams," said Greenbrier East player Chaunte McDowell. "Westside is undefeated."

"We can't let anybody come in here and beat us in our house," said Woodrow Wilson guard Donte Nabors. The tournament is played at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center-the same place Woodrow Wilson plays its home games.

The event is hosted by Greenbrier Resort owner Jim Justice, who thinks this tournament gives people a glimpse of the state tournament.

"Playing events like this on open goals and playing multiple games back-to back," Justice said. "It sure reflects the state tournament atmosphere."

More than 40 teams ranging from Elementary to high school will take part in the Classic.

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