The Coppin State men's and women's basketball teams will each participate in the inaugural "Parade of Champions", an event initiated by Baltimore mayor Sheila Dixon in celebration of local residents who excel in both athletics and academics.

The parade will be held on Saturday (Sept. 13) beginning at 2 p.m. at the Patterson Park Pavilion and ending on the 200 block of North Montford Street.

The parade is being held to honor the brightest "jewels" in Baltimore City. Individuals being celebrated include local athletes, teachers, students and other notable champions from Baltimore including Olympic Gold Medalist Carmelo Anthony.

The Coppin State basketball teams each captured the 2008 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference titles and advanced on to participate in its respective NCAA Tournaments. It marked the first time in school history that both teams won the title in the same season.

At the conclusion of the parade, Mayor Dixon will name the 200 block of North Montford Street after three-time National Basketball Association champion Sam Cassell.