EASTLAKE — Browns tight end David Njoku hosted his second annual Celebrity Softball Game on Thursday night at Classic Park, and unlike last year, it was Team Njoku that ended up winning, 14-13, over Team Haden, captained by former Brown Joe Haden.
Njoku shared his thoughts on the event before the game.
“This is a great event, I think we’re going to have a lot of fun,” he said. “Like I said, it brings us all together more often.”
The stars of the event included Browns rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders, influencer Halle Payne and Pro Football Hall of Famer Michael Irvin.
Former Browns linebacker Mack Wilson Sr. also played, and said he was happy he was able to return to Cleveland and play.
“It brings me joy to always come back here,” said Wilson, now with the Cardinals. “With me being drafted here, getting my first chance to play on the pro level... It’ll always be a place in my heart so I’ll try to come back as much as possible.”
Cleveland lightweight boxing phenom Abdullah Mason threw out the first pitch.
The first half of the game gave the crowd some moments to remember. Influencer “Gangster Granny” drew cheers from the crowd after she singled and was embraced by many players as she reached first base.
Browns receiver Cedric Tillman hit a home run for Team Njoku in the fifth inning.
The home run helped Team Njoku get some momentum going into the sixth and final inning, but it still trailed, 13-12.
Haden and Cleveland boxer Montana Love were both able to get on base, but Team Haden couldn’t score.
In the bottom of the sixth, Browns receiver Jerry Jeudy hit the ball over the fence for a home run to spark a two-run inning that gave his team the win.
Game organizers said that proceeds from the event will go to organizations that support youth baseball.