Stephen Curry and LeBron James engaged in a friendly game of basketball with enthusiastic students on a delightful Friday. Image courtesy: Alex Goodlett for The New York Times.
“Keep trying, you’ve got this,” encouraged LeBron James, as he cheered on a group of 16 second graders from Success Academy Charter Schools. The children stood before him, looking determined in their blue button-down shirts and red ties. They took turns tossing basketballs as high as they could, aiming for the towering rim that stood at least seven feet above them. With each attempt, James was there to catch the rebounds.
“There we go, there we go, there we go.” These were the enthusiastic words that echoed through the subterranean gym at the High School of Graphic Communication Arts on West 49th Street in Hell’s Kitchen on a Friday afternoon around 2:30 p.m. It was a special occasion as James, a four-time N.B.A. most valuable player, had planned to host a basketball clinic for children. Little did he know that it would turn into a star-studded event, drawing in a crowd beyond his expectations.
The scene outside the school was bustling with activity, with six police vans and a satellite television truck parked nearby. Even Mayor Bill de Blasio made an appearance, adding to the excitement. The presence of N.B.A. Commissioner Adam Silver, Michele A. Roberts, the executive director of the National Basketball Players Association, and Arne Duncan, the secretary of education, further elevated the event’s status.
What was meant to be a basketball clinic for children quickly transformed into a gathering of influential figures. However, amidst the chaos and the VIP attendees, the focus remained on the children and their love for the sport.
Stephen Curry, the player with the most votes in the All-Star Game and a rising superstar, showcased his impressive shooting skills while the students were more captivated by LeBron James. They laughed at his silly antics and were amazed by his ability to spin the basketball on his finger and dunk with ease. The NBA recently renovated the gym, transforming it into a bright and airy recreation center adorned with NBA All-Star banners. The fitness clinic led by James and Curry was just one of many conducted by the league at schools throughout the city. James expressed his gratitude for the new facilities, reminiscing about his own experiences playing on makeshift outdoor courts growing up. Before the ribbon-cutting ceremony, James addressed the crowd, encouraging them to listen to their parents and teachers and hoping he and Curry can continue to be an inspiration. While fans used to dream about seeing James play for the Knicks in New York, his presence at this community service event near Madison Square Garden served as a reminder that his home is now in Cleveland. Even Mayor de Blasio took a moment to watch James interact with the children on the court. Curry also spoke highly of playing in New York, mentioning the historical significance of Madison Square Garden and how it always brings out the best in him. However, it should be noted that Curry plays for the Golden State Warriors and is not a free agent until 2017. In other news, Knicks owner James L. Dolan admitted that he shouldn’t have responded angrily to a critical email from a fan. He acknowledged that he receives many emails but usually ignores the negative ones. However, this one caught him at a bad time, resulting in a heated exchange. Dolan expressed regret for his actions and suggested that everyone focus on the upcoming All-Star Week. Additionally, LeBron James has been elected as the first vice president of the National Basketball Players Association, giving him a prominent role in negotiating with the league’s owners over revenue.