Grand Rapids Gold to Host Special Olympics Basketball Clinic at Van Andel Arena

The Grand Rapids Gold, the NBA G League affiliate of the Denver Nuggets, will host a Special Olympics Basketball Clinic on Tuesday, February 14, 2023. The clinic will take place at Van Andel Arena from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST. The clinic will be in partnership with the Special Olympics of Michigan “SOMI”.

“The Special Olympics of Michigan holds a significant place in my heart. I've had the opportunity to interact with this organization in a variety of ways over the past few years and hosting a basketball clinic with the Grand Rapids Gold is an exciting way for me to bring these groups together.” said Gold Owner Steve Jbara. “As a member of the SOMI board I know that the interactions, smiles, and skill sets that will be shared are invaluable to this community and will create a lasting memory for all of those involved.”

"Any chance we can help create meaningful opportunities for our athletes is a win for our Special Olympics organization," said Tim Hileman, President & CEO of Special Olympics Michigan. "Without a doubt, this Grand Rapids clinic will have a positive impact on our athletes and the community, creating a positive experience for all those involved."

This clinic will feature 100 special olympic athletes who will participate in different drill stations that will be led by Grand Rapids Gold players and coaching staff. Each athlete will have the opportunity to get their official team photo taken, interact with players on the court that the Gold play on, and receive a certificate of completion.

“Sports have always been something that has brought people together and given me my best memories in life. This event will give us players the opportunity to meet the athletes and create memories that will be cherished by both them and their families,” said Grant Golden, #33 of the Grand Rapids Gold. “I am excited that we get the opportunity to be there and help teach these athletes and give them a fun and memorable experience.”

Athletes and their families will stick around after the clinic to help cheer on the Grand Rapids Gold as they take on the Windy City Bulls at 7 p.m. EST.

All media are welcome to attend. We ask that if you plan on attending, you email bwhitefield@nbagrandrapids.com to get media passes to the event.

For media-related inquiries and interview requests, contact Brittney Whitefield at bwhitefield@nbagrandrapids.com or 248-563-8736. For more information on the Grand Rapids Gold, visit www.nbagrandrapids.com.

About the NBA G League
The NBA’s official minor league, the NBA G League prepares players, coaches, officials, training and front-office staff for the NBA while acting as the league’s research and development laboratory. Featuring 30 teams, 28 with direct affiliations to NBA franchises for 2022-23, the league offers elite professional basketball at an affordable price in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. A record 47 percent of all players on 2022-23 NBA opening night rosters boasted NBA G League experience. In fostering the league’s connection to the community, its teams, players and staff promote health and wellness, support local needs and interests, and assist in educational development through NBA Cares programs.

About the Grand Rapids Gold
The Grand Rapids Gold are a member of the NBA G League and affiliated with the Denver Nuggets. The organization is committed to providing an elite level of basketball to the West Michigan community, while also investing in and contributing to the West Michigan community. The team is owned by SSJ Group LLC. For more information about the organization, visit www.nbagrandrapids.com and follow the team on its social media channels.