Nearly 90 Wayne County youth and about 25 chaperones were able to watch a former local high school basketball player in the NBA on Thursday, Feb. 20.
For the fourth year, several donors contributed so youth could ride a charter bus to see Seton Catholic High School graduate Desmond Bane compete for the Memphis Grizzlies against the Indiana Pacers in Indianapolis.
The collaboration included Wayne County Foundation, Girls Inc. of Wayne County, Townsend Community Center Inc., Richmond Family YMCA, Crystal Dreams Foundation, Christian Connectors, Boys & Girls Clubs of Wayne County and Richard Lake of Allstate Insurance.
“This isn’t just a game; it’s an unforgettable experience for these young people, who get to see Richmond’s own Desmond Bane shine on the big stage,” according to a news release from Boys & Girls Clubs of Wayne County.
Lucinda Wright, Townsend board president, said when parents called the center to express appreciation for giving their child this opportunity, her staff explained that generous people donated to make the trip possible.
Bane met with students and opened a giant handmade card that many had signed for him.
Texas Christian University recently retired Bane’s jersey. He has contributed to several local youth programs during his time in the NBA.
A version of this article will appear in the February 26 2025 print edition of the Western Wayne News.