(Left to Right) Zaahid McClellon, Jason Bruno, Asher Gray, Pastor Ernest Gray, Elias Gray, Julia Bruno, Martha Aviles, Joy/Jade Lee, Brittney Powell-Lee, and Brian “Coach Q” McCoy.
A group of young Chicago students had a once-in-a-lifetime experience at the 2025 NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco, where they engaged in a dynamic blend of sports, education, and STEM learning. Organized by The Black Star Project and BDM Sports/STEM and Education Initiative, the trip gave students, parents, and staff a firsthand look at the intersection of science, technology, and athletics through exclusive events, clinics, and workshops.
The Youth Business of Sports/STEM and Education students attended several marquee events, including the NBA All-Star Rising Stars game, NBA All-Star practice featuring superstars like Steph Curry, Kevin Durant, and Kyrie Irving, as well as the NBA-HBCU Classic between Morehouse College and Tuskegee University. The students also took part in the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA STEM Clinic, where they explored how science influences basketball performance, and participated in the NBA Total Health All-Star Walk.
One of the highlights of the trip was an opportunity to meet NBA All-Star Jalen Williams of the Oklahoma City Thunder and WNBA legend Lisa Leslie. The students also interacted with sports industry professionals, gaining insights into the business side of athletics.
Among the young attendees was nine-year-old Asher Gray, one of the youngest Business of Sports students, who had a special meet-and-greet with staff from Emirates, the NBA’s new official airline. Emirates, which became the Official Airline of the NBA in February 2024, is also the title partner of the NBA Cup and the first-ever referee jersey patch partner of the league.
For the second consecutive year, students from The Black Star Project participated in the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA STEM Clinic. This unique event allowed them to explore how scientific principles impact basketball skills and overall athletic performance. From biomechanics to physics, the students gained valuable knowledge that enhances both their game on the court and their academic growth in the classroom.
Beyond the basketball festivities, students and chaperones took time to explore San Francisco, including a visit to the historic Fisherman’s Wharf. The trip was made possible through the generous support of University Travel, media partners, and individual donors who contributed to ensuring the students had an enriching and memorable experience.
Attendees included Zaahid McClellon, Jason Bruno, Asher Gray, Pastor Ernest Gray, Elias Gray, Julia Bruno, Martha Aviles, Joy/Jade Lee, Brittney Powell-Lee, and Brian “Coach Q” McCoy. Their participation in the NBA All-Star Weekend underscored the importance of exposing young minds to opportunities that combine education, sports, and career exploration.
As the young Chicagoans returned home, they carried with them more than just memories of thrilling basketball action. They left inspired by the power of STEM in sports and motivated to pursue future careers in athletics, business, and science—proving that basketball is much more than just a game.