Old Timers Basketball Game Returns

There are games… and then there are Mendel games.

On Saturday, May 2, the gym comes back to life as Mendel Alumni face off against the Catholic League All-Stars in a true throwback showdown. This isn’t just a game—it’s a reunion, a rivalry, and a reminder of what Mendel meant to the South Side.

Former Monarchs who once ruled the court will lace them up again, representing neighborhoods across Chicago— Roseland, Pullman, Chatham, South Shore, and beyond. Across from them? A loaded roster of Catholic League talent from every corner of the city.

Mendel vs. the Entire City. Just like it used to feel.

And if you remember, you remember…
They didn’t just call them the Monarchs. They called them Blue Smoke—because they moved so fast you barely saw them, just a blur up and down the court, uniforms worn thin from running teams out of the gym.

Expect familiar names, old-school pride, and a few jump shots that still look just as smooth as they did back in the day. And yes—the Three Point Contest is back too.

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Event Details

Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Robichaux Park
9247 S. Eggleston Ave., Chicago, IL

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What to Expect

• Mendel legends back on the floor
• Catholic League stars from across Chicago
• Three Point Contest
• Stories, laughs, and plenty of competitive fire

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Admission

Free — just bring your voice

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Come Out and Represent

This is bigger than basketball. It’s about legacy, community, and a school that brought together the entire South Side.

So pull up, bring your people, and get loud.

Blue Smoke still runs.

Mendel Alumni (Monarchs / “Blue Smoke”)
Mike Hampton
Jerry Gee
Al Hudson
Mark “Ant” Dunn
Fred Cleveland
Willie Westly
Tahir Brown
& more Monarchs

Coach: Mike Flaherty

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Catholic League All-Stars
Art Aaron (St. Ignatius)
James Farr (Mt. Carmel)
Michael Hampton (Leo)
Joe Eggleston (Hales)
Al Wilks (Leo)
Titus Redmond (Gordon Tech)
Jordan David Townes (Luther South)
& many more stars

Coach: Billy Hawkins