Did you know the YMCA invented basketball? It’s true: James Naismith was working at a YMCA training school in Massachusetts when he was challenged by his boss to come up with a game that would spark an interest in exercise among a class of especially difficult young men. He was successful, and now basketball is one of the most popular sports played at the Y and watched by fans everywhere, at all levels of the game.
That heritage will be honored through an exciting partnership between the YMCA of Metro Detroit and the Detroit Pistons to promote health and wellness throughout the Metro area.
It includes two YMCA Nights at The Palace, the first on Feb. 1 when the Pistons play the Philadelphia 76ers and April 5 versus the Boston Celtics. Not only will the Y receive a $5 donation for every ticket sold to members and staff, every child participating in Y sports programs or the Y’s summer program can attend those games and get a post-game shot and photo on the Pistons court. It’s a memory-making opportunity for any young sports fan.
“The YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit and the Detroit Pistons are committed to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility,” says Reid Thebault, president and CEO of the Metro Detroit Y. “This partnership is a win-win for both organizations and, collectively, we can work together to increase opportunities for physical activity and healthy living for all.”
Pistons players will also promote health and wellness in a series of public service announcements and appearances for the Metro Detroit Y.
The local partnership is an extension of a national one between the nationwide Y association and the NBA. “We look forward to using this great platform to share our message of teamwork, exercise and good nutrition to YMCA members and Pistons fans throughout the region,” said Charlie Metzger, Palace Sports & Entertainment executive vice president and chief marketing & communications officer.