JERSEY CITY, NJ — The 2nd Annual Lamar McKnight Classic will take place in Jersey City this weekend after community leaders came together to help resolve last-minute issues that had placed the event in jeopardy.

With plans changing just days before the Classic, Lamar McKnight’s mother, Nataasha McKnight, was faced with the possibility of canceling the event. Senator Benjie Wimberly informed Assemblyman Jerry Walker about the situation, and Noemí Velázquez, President of the Jersey City Board of Education, helped coordinate an emergency meeting with Dr. Norma Fernández, Superintendent of Jersey City Public Schools.

That meeting helped bring the necessary parties together and helped ensure the Classic could remain in Jersey City.

“I truly want to thank everyone who stepped in when we needed help,” said Nataasha McKnight. “Everything was changing so quickly, and I was honestly at the point where I thought we were going to have to cancel. Senator Wimberly, Assemblyman Walker, Noemí Velázquez, Dr. Fernández and everyone involved helped make sure we could keep the Classic here in Jersey City.”

The Lamar McKnight Classic was created to honor Lamar’s life, his love for football and the impact he had on young athletes and the Jersey City community.

For Nataasha, being able to continue the event in Jersey City carries special meaning.

“This is bigger than football for our family,” McKnight said. “This is about keeping Lamar’s name, his impact and everything he stood for alive. He cared deeply about young people and this community, and being able to continue the Classic here in Jersey City means everything to us. We want his legacy to continue for years to come.”

Nataasha also has a longstanding connection to Team Walker, having graduated from its HVAC training program as one of its top students.

Assemblyman Walker credited the collaboration among local and state leaders for helping the family move forward with the event.

“Once Senator Wimberly made me aware of what was happening, the goal was simply to help,” said Assemblyman Jerry Walker. “Noemí Velázquez was instrumental in helping bring the meeting together, and I appreciate Dr. Norma Fernández and everyone who worked quickly to find a solution. Most importantly, Nataasha and her family will be able to continue honoring Lamar right here in Jersey City.”

The 2nd Annual Lamar McKnight Classic will be held Saturday, September 5, 2026, at Caven Point Field in Jersey City.

The schedule includes:

Ferris vs. JFK — 12:00 p.m.

Lincoln vs. Hudson Catholic — 3:00 p.m.

St. Peter’s Prep vs. St. Thomas More — 7:00 p.m.

The Classic will bring together student-athletes, families and members of the community for a day of football, remembrance and celebration of Lamar McKnight’s lasting impact on Jersey City and the young people he inspired.