PITTSBURGH – The University of Pittsburgh baseball team will once again partner with the Josh Gibson Foundation to host the third annual Negro League Celebration event in conjunction with its Sunday, April 29 game versus LIU Brooklyn.
 
The Negro League has a rich history in the city of Pittsburgh, dating back to the Homestead Grays and the Pittsburgh Crawfords and both the Panthers and Blackbirds will play tribute to the historic league. The groups will also honor to this year's Community Champion Award winner, John M. Wilds, PhD, SPHR who serves as the assistant vice chancellor for community relations at the University of Pittsburgh. Wilds will be recognized for his outstanding work bridging the gap between the University of Pittsburgh and the surrounding communities.  
 
"Over the past few years, this is a date we mark on our calendar. It is a great honor for all of us to be a part of this Negro League Celebration," said head coach Joe Jordano. "The Negro Leagues played such a prominent part in baseball history and in particular, Pittsburgh baseball history with the Homestead Grays and Pittsburgh Crawfords. These players were among the most-talented to ever play the game. I was privileged to get to know Sam "The Jet" Jethroe from my hometown of Erie and I learned at an early age to have a great respect and appreciation for the Negro Leagues and its players. Today, again, is a wonderful acknowledgment and celebration of such an important part of the game we love."

The game is set for 12 p.m. between the Panthers and Blackbirds, with gates opening 90 minutes prior to the start of competition. To purchase tickets visit www.pittsburghpanthers.com/buytickets or call 1-800-643-7488.
 
Fans in attendance will receive a replica Homestead Grays tshirt. Postgame autographs will also be available with members of the Pitt baseball team.
 
The Josh Gibson Foundation believes in the endless possibilities for potential in today's youth. By providing academic and athletic programs that foster leadership and scholarship, the skills necessary for tomorrow's success are created today.

Their goal is to carry the legacy of greatness and accomplishment embodied by Josh Gibson, by developing programs that help children of every level of ability reach their potential, and to create opportunities that set The Josh Gibson Foundation apart from other organizations and provides value for our communities.