Arizona Cardinals linebacker Mack Wilson Sr. is no stranger to the spotlight—whether it’s on the gridiron or in his community. Known for his tenacity on the field and generous spirit off of it, Wilson is set to host his Fourth Annual “Make A Difference” Celebrity Charity Game on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Corona Del Sol High School in Tempe, Arizona. What began as a heartfelt mission to uplift youth and empower local neighborhoods has now become one of the Valley’s most anticipated charitable events.
This family-friendly affair will feature a celebrity basketball game, community engagement activities, and appearances by NFL stars, influencers, and entertainers—all united by a shared cause: making a difference in the lives of underprivileged youth.
Origins of a Movement
Mack Wilson Sr. launched the “Make A Difference” charity game in 2021 during his tenure with the Cleveland Browns. Inspired by his own upbringing in Montgomery, Alabama—a city rich in history but also fraught with socioeconomic challenges—Wilson wanted to leverage his platform to pour back into communities like the one he came from.
“Growing up, I didn’t have much. But I had mentors, I had people who believed in me, and I had sports,” Wilson once shared during a 2023 media interview. “If I can give one kid a reason to believe in themselves the way I had people believe in me, that’s what this whole thing is about.”
Each year, the event has grown in both scale and scope. From modest beginnings in Alabama to a bustling showcase in the heart of Arizona, Wilson’s dedication remains unwavering. It’s not just a basketball game—it’s a beacon of hope.
What to Expect at the 2025 Event
This year’s “Make A Difference” event is shaping up to be the most spectacular yet. Scheduled from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., the afternoon will be packed with entertainment, community outreach, and opportunities for fans to interact with their favorite athletes and celebrities.
Celebrity Basketball Game
The highlight of the event is, of course, the celebrity basketball game, which tips off at 1 p.m.. Fans will see familiar faces from the NFL, NBA, music industry, and social media world battling it out on the hardwood. Last year’s roster included the likes of Kyler Murray, Budda Baker, Isaiah Simmons, and even local rap artists and influencers.
Expect high-flying dunks, no-look passes, and some good-natured trash talk—plus plenty of laughs. The competition may be lighthearted, but the mission is serious: every point scored supports the event’s fundraising efforts for youth education, wellness, and mentorship programs.
Community Fun Zone
Before and after the game, the “Community Fun Zone” will be buzzing with activity. Features include:
- Face painting and balloon artists
- Interactive games for kids
- Local food vendors and food trucks
- Live music and DJ sets
- Health and wellness booths
- Raffle giveaways and silent auctions
Families are encouraged to arrive early and stay late. The entire event is designed to foster community bonding and create a safe, uplifting environment where kids and parents alike can enjoy a memorable day.
Why This Event Matters
In the landscape of sports philanthropy, few athletes match the consistency and personal investment that Wilson brings to his initiatives. The “Make A Difference” game is not a one-off publicity event—it’s an extension of who Mack Wilson Sr. is as a person.
He not only funds the event with his own resources but is hands-on in its planning. Wilson personally invites the guests, reviews the budget, checks in with youth organizations, and ensures every detail aligns with the event’s mission.
Proceeds from the game support several charitable efforts, including:
- Scholarships for local high school seniors
- Donations to Tempe-area youth football and basketball programs
- Free sports physicals and mental health support for underserved communities
- School supply drives and holiday toy giveaways
To date, Wilson’s charity initiative has raised over $300,000 for youth-focused causes. His team estimates that the 2025 game could add another $150,000 to that total.
Wilson’s Commitment to Arizona
Since being traded to the Arizona Cardinals in 2023, Wilson has embraced the Valley as a second home. Though his roots remain firmly planted in Alabama, he’s made a concerted effort to connect with Arizona communities—especially those that mirror the struggles he faced growing up.
Whether it’s hosting youth football clinics in South Phoenix, speaking at local schools, or supporting fellow Cardinals in their own charitable efforts, Wilson is quickly becoming a pillar in the Arizona sports community.
This year’s charity game also marks the first time it will be held in Tempe, signaling his growing presence in the region. “Arizona has embraced me, and I want to embrace Arizona right back,” Wilson said at the press launch. “I want to leave a legacy here—not just as a football player, but as someone who cared.”
Special Guests and Surprise Appearances
One of the most exciting aspects of the “Make A Difference” game is the surprise celebrity appearances. In previous years, fans were thrilled by unannounced appearances from Deebo Samuel, CeeDee Lamb, and even rappers Lil Baby and YG.
While this year’s guest list has been mostly kept under wraps, confirmed attendees include:
- Kyler Murray – Cardinals QB and friend of Wilson
- Hollywood Brown – Wilson’s Cardinals teammate
- Jade Carey – Olympic gymnast and ASU standout
- DJ Pauly D – Reality TV star and music performer
- Cameron Sutton – Detroit Lions CB and former Alabama teammate
Expect more high-profile names to drop in during the week leading up to the event.
Ticket Information and VIP Packages
General admission tickets are priced at $20 and are available through Eventbrite. Children under 5 are admitted free. For fans looking to enhance their experience, VIP packages are also available. These include:
- Courtside seating
- Meet-and-greet access
- Signed memorabilia
- Catered hospitality suite
All proceeds go toward youth development programs in the greater Phoenix and Tempe areas. Sponsors and community partners include the Arizona Cardinals, Nike, Gatorade, and several local small businesses.
Broader Community Impact
Beyond just fundraising, the “Make A Difference” event serves as a powerful tool for awareness and community mobilization. In past years, the event has led to:
- Mentorship programs launched in three high schools
- Free annual health screenings for 250+ students
- Partnerships between local businesses and after-school programs
In 2024, Wilson’s foundation funded 50 Chromebooks for low-income students and covered sports participation fees for dozens of middle schoolers. This year, he’s set to introduce a new initiative called “Ballin’ Beyond the Field,” which will match students with mentors in STEM, business, and creative arts.
Future Plans
Wilson has already confirmed that the “Make A Difference” game will continue annually and is exploring the possibility of expanding it into other cities with underserved youth populations, such as Las Vegas and Atlanta. Additionally, his team is working on a mentorship podcast and a youth leadership summit for 2026.
“I don’t want this to be a one-day thing,” Wilson emphasized. “I want it to be the beginning of something bigger. If we’re not inspiring the next generation, then what are we really doing?”
Final Thoughts
In an era where athletes are increasingly using their platforms to create meaningful change, Mack Wilson Sr. stands out as a blueprint for what it means to lead with heart. His fourth annual “Make A Difference” Celebrity Charity Game is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of resilience, hope, and the power of community.
For those in Arizona on May 10th, this event is more than worth your time. For Mack Wilson Sr., it’s another step in a lifelong mission to turn his platform into purpose—and to ensure that tomorrow’s leaders get the opportunities they deserve today.