SMITHTOWN, NY – The Children’s Residential Program at Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI), a leading Long Island care provider for children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities, spent the afternoon shooting hoops with the Long Island Nets, the NBA G League affiliate of the Brooklyn Nets.
Coaches from the Long Island Nets Basketball Academy led a group of 20 children and young adults from DDI through an afternoon of enrichment where they were able to hone their basketball skills and learn fundamental concepts directly from the experts. The Long Island Nets Basketball Academy is a program by the Long Island Nets, featuring clinics, camps, and other events for youth basketball players, offering participants the opportunity to train in shooting, dribbling, passing, and defense, and also fosters leadership and teamwork.
“We are grateful to the Long Island Nets for taking the time to connect with our children and young adults,” said Laura Ollett, Director, Children’s Residential Program. “Events like this provide our students with meaningful interactions and opportunities to build confidence, while also showing them the importance of teamwork and perseverance.”
The Long Island Nets’ basketball clinic with DDI builds upon the team’s ongoing commitment to promoting autism awareness and acceptance, further highlighting their dedication to inclusivity. Over the years, the LI Nets have hosted sensory-friendly game days designed to create a comfortable environment for fans with autism, partnered with local organizations to provide resources and education for families, and supported Autism Acceptance Month through awareness campaigns and in-arena activities. By creating opportunities like the DDI clinic, the LI Nets continue to expand on these efforts, giving individuals with developmental disabilities the chance to engage in the game of basketball in a supportive and uplifting environment.
“This initiative is a true reflection of our core values at the Long Island Nets,” said Morgan Taylor, Team President of the Long Island Nets. “We believe sports have the power to bring people together, and through opportunities like this, we’re proud to create inclusive experiences that celebrate diversity, promote understanding, and ensure that every fan and participant feels welcomed and valued.”