BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WIAT) -- Crimson Tide fans made their way into Legacy Arena Wednesday night for the annual C.M. Newton Classic basketball game against the University of Illinois.
Attending the game is an annual tradition for some fans like Lauren Stiffler.
"Been coming to this game for several years man, love it when they play up here, a lot easier to get to." said Stiffler
For other fans, the game is a new experience to see the Crimson Tide in a different environment than Coleman Coliseum.
But it's the significance of the game that drew both fans and former players to the annual classic.
"Newton was the pioneer for winning basketball in the state of Alabama. He first started recruiting black athletes and from then on, we began to get better. No matter what the color of the player. Black or what, if you could play, Newton wants you," said former University of Alabama Point Guard, from 1970-1974, Ray Odum.
Odum is among the players coached by C.M. Newton.
Odum said Coach Newton helped pave the way in bringing diversity to the court during a time of racial tension in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
"It felt good because Coach Newton and the fans treated us really well," said Odum.
Ultimately, opening doors for more players like Richard Hendrix who played for the Crimson Tide from 2005-2008.
"His mark that he made in the conference in the southeastern conference to make it a more competitive and nationally known basketball conference is significant." said Hendrix.
A legacy both Hendrix and Odum wants fans to take away from this classic game.
Aside from the game, local Birmingham nonprofits that focus on diversity and inclusion were also highlighted.
A few of them walked away with a $2,500 donation winning the title of 2024 Legacy Builder.