Hometown Hero Desmond Bane Inspires Kids at Grizzlies Game

INDIANAPOLIS — Over 100 children from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Wayne County had the chance of a lifetime on Thursday night as they attended the Memphis Grizzlies’ game against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Many of these kids were there to see their hometown hero, Desmond Bane, a Richmond native who has become a standout player in the NBA.

This year, 46 club members and more than 50 youth from local organizations traveled to the game, funded by generous donations. Alicia Painter, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Wayne County, emphasized the importance of this experience. “It’s an unforgettable experience for these young people, who get to see Richmond’s own Desmond Bane shine on the big stage,” she said.

Bane, in his fifth season with the Grizzlies, is averaging 18.1 points, 5.8 rebounds and 5.4 assists this season. He previously led the Texas Christian University Horned Frogs to notable victories and was drafted in the first round of the 2020 NBA Draft.

“The reaction from our kids is that great reminder why we do what we do,” Painter added. “We give them that chance to see what life can be.”

Among the children attending were 14-year-olds Bryson and Xavion from the Richmond area. “All these NBA players are just very explosive and can get to the rack on anybody,” Xavion said, while 10-year-old Zai expressed his excitement for learning from the pros. “I get really excited about what the basketball players do and watch their moves and use them in games,” he said. Many of the participants come from lower-income backgrounds, where seeing a live professional game can be a milestone.

Painter explained the broader impact of such opportunities: “That’s what we’ve been able to do over the last four years with this experience. We give these kids this opportunity to see Desmond, to see the Pacers and how hard work and discipline leads to a successful career doing what you love.” She highlighted the significance of community support in the kids’ lives.

During the game, Bane led the Grizzlies with 23 points and 7 assists, despite his team’s eventual loss to the Pacers, who won 127-113. The atmosphere in the stands became electric as young fans cheered for Bane, who stated in a past interview how his hometown influenced his character and career. “This is my home. It shaped me into the man that I am today,” he said.

As the game unfolded, the children were treated not only to a display of basketball talent but also to a vivid representation of how dreams can become reality with hard work, inspiring them to pursue their own goals. Programs like the Boys & Girls Clubs continue to play a vital role in helping young people foster their ambitions while also providing memorable experiences.