The top high school basketball players from Long Island and New York City will compete in what promises to be edge-of-your-seat excitement, highlighting today's top talent in the New York Metro area.

The second annual Metro Classic will provide exciting action as the New York City All-Stars will face-off against The Long Island All-Stars on October 23 at Christ the King Regional High School in Middle Village, Queens to benefit The Long Island Alzheimer's Foundation (LIAF).

Among the players competing are Ashley Caiafa, Suzanne Fregosi, and Gina Giambaco, all of Massapequa High School.

The girls' game will begin at 4 p.m. and the boys' competition, a new and exciting addition to this year's tournament, will start at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door. Group rates are also available. Tickets can be purchased by using a credit card online at: www.metroclassic.org/tickets.htm or by calling 767-6856.

This year MSG Networks will broadcast the event that is estimated to reach more than 10 million viewers. C.W. Post Radio will also do a live radio web cast of the game.

Debbie Brajevich, a staff member of LIAF and well-known women's basketball coach created the idea of the Metro Classic, as a way to bring her two passions together: basketball and the Alzheimer's Foundation. "This will be the best high school game in the state this season because you have all the All-Stars," said Brajevich. "This is a great chance to expose the public to the great talent in the New York Metro area, as well as support a very worthwhile cause."

The 2005 Metro Classic's proceeds will support LIAF's educational and social services for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, and their families in Nassau, Suffolk, Queens and Brooklyn. LIAF's programs include resources, counseling by certified social workers, in-home respite care, support groups, an adult services program, and comprehensive Centers for Memory Disorders at area medical facilities. Those individuals who cannot make the event can still help by making a donation in memory or in honor of a loved one by visiting www.liaf.org and clicking on the How Can I Help, button on the navigation bar.