by BRECKSVILLE, Ohio–For seven years, Ian Cunningham’s vision has brought a free basketball showcase to Northeast Ohio, helping athletes earn scholarships at the NAIA, Division III, NCCAA, USCAA, and JUCO levels.
The 7th annual I.C. Change Showcase, held on June 14, continued that impact by offering three separate opportunities for athletes to earn scholarship money. Thanks to volunteers and donors, the event highlights a powerful lesson through basketball: the importance of giving back.
The first scholarship recipient was Alan Mallory, a 6-foot-6 forward who earned a $1,250 award and secured a roster spot with Miami University-Hamilton—one of the top programs in the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA).
Demairus Logan, a Cleveland native, also received a $500 scholarship. The third and final $1,250 scholarship will be awarded to one deserving attendee in the coming weeks, wrapping up this year’s showcase with one last impactful moment.
“This has been my vision since day one: to be a branch of the Lord, to bless someone’s child and to make a real difference in the life of a young person striving for something greater,” Cunningham explained. “To support someone who wants to do something positive with their life, continue chasing their dream of playing college basketball, and get an education—that’s what the I.C. Change movement is all about.”
Among those in attendance was William Henry “Smush” Parker, one of Ian Cunningham’s closest friends and a former NBA player who knows firsthand what it takes to succeed on the court. Parker served as a mentor throughout the day—watching games, answering players’ questions, and offering guidance, ultimately serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the young athletes.
Parker let it be known that playing in the NBA isn’t all that it’s made out to be. It’s a business and you have to be able to do everything in order to get there, can’t have any limitations when playing amongst the best in the world.
“You have to walk like a pro, act like a pro and talk like a pro if you want to make it to the NBA,” shared Parker, who spent six years in the NBA and 17 total years playing professional basketball.
2024 Showcase Impact
A year ago, former Villa Angela-St. Joseph standout Jason Priah earned MVP honors at the I.C. Change Showcase. That recognition helped him find a new opportunity for his final year of college eligibility, landing a spot with Miami University-Hamilton. There, he capped off his collegiate journey by winning the USCAA Division II National Championship.
Despite a college career that included stops at multiple programs and levels, Priah remained committed. “I’m going to keep going with this, no matter how many bumps and bruises come my way,” he said following the 2024 showcase.
One year later, his persistence paid off—not only with a national title, but also with a leadership role. Priah returned to the event as a coach for the Carolina Blue team, a testament to his continued growth. Over the past few years, he has transformed from a student of the game into a mentor, now guiding others along the same path he once walked. His story stands as a testament to the lasting impact of the I.C. Change Showcase.
2025 Showcase Impact
Over the past seven years, the I.C. Change Showcase has continued to grow—in impact, attendance, and opportunity. Whether through scholarships, guest speakers, or mentorship, Ian Cunningham has consistently found ways to give back to the community.
This year’s event also celebrated individual achievements. Riston Taylor and Eli Ellis took home top honors in the two-man shooting challenge, showcasing their skill in a standout performance. Taylor’s efforts earned him a spot on the All-Showcase Team, further highlighting the talent on display throughout the day.
JD Latham, a 6-foot-9 forward from Detroit, Michigan, earned the title of King of the Court. Using his size to dominate inside while flashing a reliable jump shot, Latham kept defenders off balance and stood out as one of the day’s top performers.
Sean Conway of Cleveland, Ohio, took home the Defensive Stopper award. Though listed at just 5-foot-10, Conway played much bigger—relentless on the ball, active in passing lanes, and constantly applying pressure. A returning participant and junior college transfer, Conway brought contagious energy and was a difference-maker on both ends of the floor.
Rayshawn Hamilton, a 6-foot-5 wing from Akron, was named the recipient of the Kyle Jackson Playmaker Award. A dynamic athlete, Hamilton delivered in clutch moments, using his explosiveness to create scoring chances and elevate his team’s offense with smart, aggressive play.
Demairus Logan of Cleveland, Ohio, was given honors of the Audra Jackson Mr. Hustle award. Known for his all-out effort and never taking a play off, Logan’s energy and determination were on full display. Always a step away from making something happen, he embodied the spirit of grit and perseverance that defines the I.C. Change Showcase.
Calvin Marshall, a 6-foot-7 forward, was named the showcase MVP. The Detroit, Michigan native was nearly impossible to defend at times. He had the green light at all times, helping lead his team to great success throughout the event. Vocal when needed, Marshall possesses a high basketball IQ, making him an intriguing college prospect.
Eight teams competed in a series of games throughout the morning and afternoon sessions of games. Two players from each team made it to the All-Showcase Team.
Team 1 (White) Demoni Laster 6’4 & Nick Taylor 6’3 | Team 2 (Gold) Dirk Johnson 6’8 & Justin Sims 6’4
Team 3 (Neon Yellow) Kevon Clay 5’10 & Toureque Cartwright 6’5 | Team 4 (Pink) Marcos Vazquez 6′ & The’Chaunn Brooks 6′
Team 5 (Blue) Calvin Marshall 6’7 & AJ Adio 6’4 | Team 6 (Carolina Blue) Rayshawn Hamilton 6’5 & John Treadwell 6’2
Team 7 (Green) Riston Taylor 6’3& JD Latham 6’8 | Team 8 (Silver) Sean Conway 5’10 & Allen Mallory 6’6
The I.C. Change Mission
Although the showcase takes place once a year in Northeast Ohio, its impact reaches far beyond the court—shaping both the game and the lives of student-athletes. That deeper purpose is what drives Ian Cunningham to leave a lasting impression on every participant. While earning a scholarship or being named a top performer is a notable achievement, the true value lies in being part of something greater than basketball.
“We believe in these kids, and we believe in change.”
