Herkimer, NY — The Herkimer Originals, the ABA’s hometown basketball team proudly representing the birthplace of basketball, will tip off their Double Header Home Opener Weekend at Herkimer College this Saturday, November 8 at 7 PM and Sunday, November 9 at 5 PM.
The Originals will face the Rochester Royal Ballers and the Saratoga Racers, highlighted by a special appearance from celebrity musician and honorary Herkimer Original, Steve Azar.
Azar — a Mississippi Delta native, hit songwriter, and recording artist — has built an acclaimed career that spans music, philanthropy, and culture. His breakout single “I Don’t Have to Be Me (‘til Monday)” became one of the most played country songs of the 21st century, earning four BMI Million-Air Awards for surpassing 4 million radio plays. The title track from his debut album Waitin’ on Joe, featuring Academy Award winner Morgan Freeman, reached #1 on CMT.
In 2022, Azar’s song “One Mississippi” became the official state song of Mississippi, and in 2023, he received the Mississippi Music Awards Lifetime Achievement Award. He currently serves as the official Music & Culture Ambassador of Mississippi, and his foundation — the Steve Azar St. Cecilia Foundation — has raised millions of dollars for charitable causes across the country.
An avid golfer and humanitarian, Azar is regularly ranked among Golf Digest’s Top 5 musicians who play golf and continues to host major fundraising events through his Delta Soul Celebrity Golf & Charity Event.
“We’re honored to have Steve Azar take the court with the Herkimer Originals this weekend,” said Scott Flansburg, founder of the Herkimer Originals. “Steve’s story, his music, and his generosity perfectly embody what the Originals are all about — heart, community, and originality.”
Fans can expect an unforgettable weekend celebrating music, community, and Herkimer’s place in basketball history.
General admission is $10, and students 18 and under are free. For tickets and details, visit HerkimerOriginals.com.
