Milwaukee Public Schools: 'I Want To Be A Bucks Player': Young Milwaukee Bucks Fans Inspired By Team's Championship Run

Press release from Milwaukee Public Schools:

July 13, 2021

MILWAUKEE — The success of the Milwaukee Bucks is inspiring younger basketball players to achieve their dreams.

In Milwaukee, all eyes are on the Bucks, one of two teams left standing in the chase for a championship. The run is inspiring to young players like Christian Gray and his friends.

“It gave me a little inspiration to come up here and play ball, and it’s hot,” Gray said.

Gray said seeing the Bucks play this year has taught him about resiliency, both on the court and in life itself.

“It’s great because they haven’t made it to the finals in a long time,” Gray said.

During summer camp for 5 to 7-year-olds at Riverside High School, kids like Jayce and Dkari are honing their skills to someday play for their favorite team.

“I want to be a Bucks player,” Dkari said.

CHASING A CHAMPIONSHIP: MORE COVERAGE:

• Game 1: Bucks Play In NBA Finals For First Time In 47 Years Tuesday Night
• Giannis Antetokounmpo Doubtful For Game 1 Of NBA Finals
• NBA Finals Schedule Set: Here's When To Watch The Bucks
• Bucks To Open Fiserv Forum For Watch Parties During Away Games
• Standing Room Only Tickets For NBA Finals Home Games On Sale Now
• 50 Years Later: An Oral History Of The 1971 Championship Bucks

Camp instructor Demetrius Boyd said he remembers being young during the Bucks’ last run, and is happy people across the city aren’t taking this moment for granted.

“I was a youngster when they won their first one, not even privy to what basketball is, so what they’re doing now, it’s something. It’s awesome, " he said.

This week marks the beginning of a moment in history for fans hungry for another championship.

This press release was produced by Milwaukee Public Schools. The views expressed here are the author’s own.