Sports

Long Island Nets Holding MLK Legacy Game Jan. 21

As part of a community outreach effort, the game will feature art by African American artists and honor a Hempstead Town councilwoman.

The Long Island Nets will host their 2nd annual Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Game when the team plays Raptors 905 at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum on Jan. 21 at 3 p.m. In the days leading up to the event, Nets players will visit local elementary schools and host community events designed to engage and educate youth on Dr. King’s teachings and lasting legacy.

During the game, the fan experience will feature several interactive elements designed to pay homage to King. Fans will be able to view a courtside art exhibit from the African American Museum of Nassau County, which will showcase African American culture, art and tradition for fans in attendance.

The Long Island Nets will honor Town of Hempstead Senior Councilwoman Dorothy L. Goosby, who was the first African American woman on the town board. In addition to her nearly 20 years of public service on the board, Goosby is also recognized for her ongoing community efforts in the Town of Hempstead that have provided access and opportunity for more residents to receive equitable representation. An in-game presentation will recognize her service to the people of Nassau County and under-served communities.

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On Jan. 14, Long Island Nets players Drew Gordon and Shannon Scott participated in a school assembly for about 160 students in grades 3-5 at Northern Parkway Elementary School in Uniondale, where they spoke to students about the life and teachings of Martin Luther King Jr. Students also had the opportunity to share what they learned with the players and engage in a dialogue around King’s lasting legacy.

The Nets will continue reaching out to the community at a Community Conversation and Basketball Clinic to be held at Roosevelt Middle School on Jan. 17 from 2 to 3 p.m. Players Nuni Omot and Ismael Sanogo will host an informal community conversation with middle school students about King’s lasting legacy before leading the students in a basketball clinic.

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Photo courtesy Long Island Nets

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