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Bleacher Report to team up with Steve Nash Foundation for annual celebrity soccer match

Bleacher Report will team up with the Steve Nash Foundation for its annual celebrity soccer match in New York City this June.

The Steve Nash Foundation will host its annual charity soccer match on Wednesday, June 20, in New York City’s Sara D. Roosevelt Park. The event will be held in collaboration with Bleacher Report, which will provide all-access multimedia coverage through the B/R App, and across its online and social platforms.

The Steve Nash Foundation Showdown will see two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash compete in a 7-on-7 soccer match alongside a host of NBA stars and world soccer legends. The Showdown will support the foundation’s philanthropic mission to “assist underserved children in their health, personal development, education and enjoyment of life.”

“Being in a position to not only provide a voice for underserved children, but to put action toward it with an annual event is something I’m really passionate about,” Nash said in a press release. “Teaming up with Bleacher Report means we’ll be able to bring the fun and excitement of Showdown to millions of people through their digital and social platforms, allowing them to take part and contribute to the mission, growing health in kids.”

“Steve’s deep roots in soccer and unrivaled passion for the game are matched only by the dedication he displays on behalf of his philanthropic efforts to help give back to communities in need,” said Dave Finocchio, Bleacher Report CEO & Founder. “We’re thrilled to work with him and his foundation to support kids, the soccer community and this fun, exciting, fan-friendly event.”

B/R Football will provide comprehensive, behind-the-scenes coverage throughout the day, including the Showdown itself and various fan-centric activities leading up to it. As part of the collaboration, Bleacher Report and the Steve Nash Foundation will host a free Fan Fest, featuring player appearances, youth clinics, music and merchandise.

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The Showdown began in 2009, and has featured matches in New York, Vancouver and LA. Last year’s New York event featured NBA stars Joel Embiid, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Jeremy Lin and JJ Redick, and numerous celebrities from the world of soccer, including Patrick Vieira, Claudio Reyna, Kyle Martino, Salomon Kalou and Christian Fuchs. The event raised over $10,000.

Fans interested in attending this year’s event, which includes returning sponsors Nike, Major League Soccer and Guinness, can access additional information here. Profits from ticket sales go directly to the Foundation’s services and programs for children.