NBA Cares Unified game is dream come true

February 19, 2019

Ashley Aldrich of Milford had the experience of a lifetime when she traveled to Charlotte N.C. to compete in the NBA Cares Unified game. Being selected as one of only 12 athletes from around the world was exciting on its own, but when she found out who her coach was, her excitement hit a new level. Ashley and her teammates, comprised of Special Olympics athletes and NBA and WNBA basketball players, were coached by none other than Kyrie Irving of the Boston Celtics.

This year marks the eighth annual NBA Cares Special Olympics Unified Basketball game during the 2019 NBA All-Star Weekend in Charlotte, NC. Twelve Special Olympics athletes from around the globe were selected to participate in this event which provides a unique opportunity to raise awareness of Special Olympics, of the abilities of our athletes, and to share our message of unity and inclusion through sports with millions of viewers around the world.

Watch Ashley on Boston 25 News!

The NBA Cares Special Olympics Unified Sports Experience is an annual event as part of NBA All-Stars. A select number of athletes from around the world compete in a Unified game alongside NBA and WNBA legends. The athletes apply to be a part of this event including a video where they talk about their experience with basketball and Special Olympics, and why they would like to be a part of this opportunity. The weekend also included basketball practices, events with the other athletes and a chance to watch the NBA All-Star game.

This Special Olympics Unified® experience combines an equal number of Special Olympics athletes (individuals with intellectual disabilities) and partners (individuals without intellectual disabilities) on teams for a 5-­‐on-­‐5 Basketball game with 10 players on each team. Each team is comprised of 4 NBA legends, WNBA players, and 6 Special Olympics athletes. The game is played for 40 minutes with two 20-­‐minute halves running time with a 10-­‐minute half-­‐time break.

Ashley Aldrich of Milford had the experience of a lifetime when she traveled to Charlotte N.C. to compete in the NBA Cares Unified game. Being selected as one of only 12 athletes from around the world was exciting on its own, but when she found out who her coach was, her excitement hit a new level. Ashley and her teammates, comprised of Special Olympics athletes and NBA and WNBA basketball players, were coached by none other than Kyrie Irving of the Boston Celtics.

This year marks the eighth annual NBA Cares Special Olympics Unified Basketball game during the 2019 NBA All-Star Weekend in Charlotte, NC. Twelve Special Olympics athletes from around the globe were selected to participate in this event which provides a unique opportunity to raise awareness of Special Olympics, of the abilities of our athletes, and to share our message of unity and inclusion through sports with millions of viewers around the world.

Watch Ashley on Boston 25 News!

The NBA Cares Special Olympics Unified Sports Experience is an annual event as part of NBA All-Stars. A select number of athletes from around the world compete in a Unified game alongside NBA and WNBA legends. The athletes apply to be a part of this event including a video where they talk about their experience with basketball and Special Olympics, and why they would like to be a part of this opportunity. The weekend also included basketball practices, events with the other athletes and a chance to watch the NBA All-Star game.

This Special Olympics Unified® experience combines an equal number of Special Olympics athletes (individuals with intellectual disabilities) and partners (individuals without intellectual disabilities) on teams for a 5-­‐on-­‐5 Basketball game with 10 players on each team. Each team is comprised of 4 NBA legends, WNBA players, and 6 Special Olympics athletes. The game is played for 40 minutes with two 20-­‐minute halves running time with a 10-­‐minute half-­‐time break.

label

Articles related

Text Link
From Kingston to Boston: Aileen Corrigan’s Six-Star Marathon Journey for Inclusion

Aileen Corrigan trains at 3 AM in Kingston, Jamaica, chasing her dream of becoming a six-star marathon finisher. In April 2025, she’ll run the Boston Marathon, not just for herself, but to support Special Olympics MA.

Text Link
Gregg's Guide: Living Independently as a Special Olympics Athlete

Gregg, a Special Olympics athlete, shares his journey to independent living. He has learned about finances, home maintenance, and self-care. Despite facing challenges, he has embraced growth and hopes others can do the same.

Text Link
Coach Ann Marie Dawes Marks 20 Years of Inspiring Special Olympics Athletes

Coach Ann Marie Dawes has dedicated 20 years to coaching Special Olympics athletes, helping them grow in skill and confidence. A Hall of Fame coach and passionate mentor, she continues to inspire.