Senator Klein, Madison Square Garden & New York Knicks Hold Basketball Clinic for P.S. 107 Students

Pro-Basketball Clinic is Slam Dunk for Bronx Students K-5

BRONX, NY - State Senator Jeffrey D. Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester) today held a basketball clinic with New York Knickerbockers alum Felipe Lopez at P.S. 107 in the Bronx. The former professional athlete was on hand to show more than 100 students the ropes in shooting hoops, pro-style basketball drills and conditioning exercises.   

“Anytime such a spectacular pro-athlete talent takes the time to meet with students, it not only lifts up their school day, but could very well be the seed to big dreams that may someday grow into their own professional sports career. Felipe is such a powerful role model and his enthusiasm and commitment to the sport of basketball and the lessons learned both on and off the court are a great inspiration for the students at P.S. 107 and beyond. Sports are always a great vehicle for keeping our children on the right track to leading healthy and happy lives,” said Senator Klein.

"Going out into the community with the Knicks has always been an honor and privilege for me. It's an important responsibility to give back and I want to help positively influence these children's lives. The group today worked as hard and as diligently as any group we've ever had the privilege of helping," said Felipe Lopez, Founder of the Felipe Lopez Foundation.

"We are grateful to Senator Klein for securing major basketball legends to participate in a fun fitness activity with our students. Days like this one are special, and having the experience of shooting hoops with basketball stars is a memory that our ​scholars will carry with them for many years. ​P.S. 107 from its inception has stressed the holistic education of our students, including robust health and wellness curriculum. We appreciate the recognition this event brings to our program and look forward to working with Senator Klein for years to come," said Katherine Hamm, Principal of P.S. 107.

A swingman from the East Bronx, Felipe Lopez was lauded as the ‘King of New York’ throughout his early career. Lopez went on to play professionally for five-straight seasons both in the U.S. and abroad. The former superstar now heads the Felipe Lopez Foundation in the South Bronx, using books and basketball to build a brighter future for students and athletes across the five boroughs.

"These young kids are our fans and our future. I get a kick out of coming out and teaching them skills and letting them know that if they work hard, anything can be achieved,” added Lopez.