COMPTON, Calif. -- The Los Angeles Sparks and their official financial partner, Albert provided a new multipurpose court at KIPP Compton Upper School on Monday. Empowering the youth and investing in communities, the “Sparks Sport Court” will be a new recreational and educational safe place for students, staff and the surrounding Compton community.
Albert’s mission of investing and cultivating the LA neighborhoods is evident in the intentional design of the court, crafted by BR Concepts. Teal accents and a vibrant LA Sparks logo marks center court, as the phrase “knowledge is power” displayed on the floor reflects the educational values being instilled by KIPP educators and mentors.
Courtney Tyler, the founding principal of KIPP SoCal Public School, emphasized how important it was to turn this vision into reality for her students with the help of childhood friend Dearica Hamby.
“Our students are beautiful, bright and brilliant. They are no less or no different than anybody else across the town,” Tyler said. "I’m just really proud to continue putting Compton on the map. Compton is safe. Compton is beautiful and our students are beautiful. They deserve the world.”
Less than 24 hours after making Unrivaled history with a 40-point performance in Miami, Dearica Hamby was in attendance to drop the first basket on the new court and gift students gear from the Jordan brand. Hamby is no stranger to the KIPP community; just over two months ago, she met with students, signed autographs and dropped gems about her journey in basketball.
“It's very important for me to give back to the youth and set a good example,” Dearica said. “We manifested this and talked about this happening. Albert, the Sparks and Nat [Natalie White] were able to make things happen.”
The ribbon-cutting ceremony brought city council members, students and community leaders together to celebrate this partnership. L.A. County Supervisor Holly Mitchell recognized Tyler and White with council awards for their dedication to community progress. Compton Unified School District President Micah Ali proudly celebrated the partnership’s potential on shaping the city’s next generation.
“Every single child deserves safe, beautiful and inspiring places to learn, grow and thrive no matter their zip code,” Ali said. “This court is living proof of what can be built when love leads the way.”
With “Sparks Sport Court” being one out of the three community court projects in development, the best is yet to come. The Sparks organization is continuing their commitment in a community that embraces positive change. Compton has welcomed community-driven improvements like KIPP Compton Upper School’s mentorship program with Alpha Phi Alpha and initiatives that provide students with leadership development and academic opportunities needed to succeed.
As third spaces for the youth shrink, the Sparks are paving the way by providing a much needed safe haven. Students will be able to access a space to play boldly and build confidence. LA Sparks Senior Vice President of Community Relations and Social Impact Natalie White spoke directly to the heart of the students during the ceremony:
“And to the students, this court belongs to you. Believe in yourself; know that you are supported," White said. "We are here to encourage you, motivate you and inspire you to be the best version of yourself on this court and in life.”