In partnership with PeacePlayers Chicago, Distinctive Schools was excited to welcome the NBA Equipment Managers Association (NBAEMA) to our CICS Longwood and CICS Lloyd Bond campuses! The equipment managers from teams across the country (including from our very own Chicago Bulls!) traded the courts for classrooms, inspiring our students with a behind the scenes look at a day in the life of an NBA Equipment Manager, and organizing and generously stocking our gyms with brand new equipment.
Beyond their duties of ensuring NBA teams are equipped for success on the court, the NBAEMA is deeply committed to giving back and inspiring the next generation. Students were excited to ask questions, learn more about pathways to careers with the NBA, and make connections. A panel of equipment managers shared their unique stories and journeys to becoming part of the many roles that make the NBA possible. Students gained valuable perspectives on various career pathways.
The commitment to community enrichment went beyond the classroom. In addition to sharing their experiences, the managers rolled up their sleeves to give school gyms and weight rooms a makeover, ensuring these spaces cater to the needs of the youth that use them. This dedication to enhancing facilities underscores the NBAEMA’s commitment to supporting communities at large!
The event was not just a success; it was a testament to the power of service and mentorship. Through their actions, NBA equipment managers showcased the importance of giving back and paying it forward. They left an indelible mark on the students, reminding them that success is not just about individual achievements but also about uplifting others along the way.
About NBAEMA:
The National Basketball Equipment Managers Association (NABEMA) is a professional organization of full-time Equipment Managers employed in the NBA. Our mission is to support and serve players, coaches, and basketball operations staff personnel with all matters related to equipment and apparel, as well as manage the on-court identity of our respective teams. In addition, the NABEMA is dedicated to the promotion and advancement of its active members. Collectively, we continuously collaborate in an effort to achieve standards, guide change, and foster a level of consistency in a progressive and ever-changing league.
About PeacePlayers:
PeacePlayers is a global organization that uses the sport of basketball to unite and educate young people in divided communities. Through a unique and proven model of sustained engagement, PeacePlayers brings together youth from different backgrounds to develop friendship, leadership, and a commitment to peace.