Grizzlies star Desmond Bane to host back-to-school event for MSCS students next month

As Memphis-Shelby County Schools helps students prepare for the upcoming academic year, it’s getting an assist from a star athlete.

Memphis Grizzlies guard Desmond Bane will host a back-to-school giveaway event for MSCS families on Aug. 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Held at the Memphis Sports and Events Center, it’s a continuation of “Bane’s Backpacks,” which he has hosted the past three years.

“I remember the excitement of starting a new school year and I think it’s important to pay it forward and help get local kids in Memphis excited too,” Bane said in a press release. “I’ve hosted back-to-school events for the past three years and it’s really special to expand and be able to work with MSCS on the event. I can’t wait to spend time with the kids later this summer.”

This year’s event is expected to include a talk from Bane, a backpack-and-school-supplies giveaway, performances by the Rozelle Dancers and Grizzlies Dance Team, vendor booths offering a variety of resources and information, interactive sessions and games, and free immunizations and school registration services.

The Grizzlies also aren’t the only organization participating, as FedEx Cares, Tampico, Champion for Literacy, and various MSCS departments will have presences at the event.

The first day of the school year for MSCS is Aug. 5.

John Klyce covers education and children's issues for The Commercial Appeal. You can reach him at John.klyce@commercialappeal.com.