On May 26th, fifteen PeacePlayers from Esawiah, Beit Safafa, Abu Ghosh and Katamon participated in a clinic - organized by the Jerusalem Municipality - with two of the NBA’s all-time Top 50 players,
Julius Erving (Dr. J) and Rick Barry at Malha Stadium in Jerusalem. Dr. J is credited with revolutionizing the game of basketball in the 1970’s, with his electrifying play and high flying dunks. Rick Barry, recognized by many basketball fans as one of the greatest pure small forwards of all time, is the only player ever to lead the NCAA, NBA, and ABA in scoring.
The PeacePlayers youth worked hard, as Dr. J lead them through a defensive warm up. They listened and watched attentively as he showed proper rebounding technique and back door cuts. Rick Barry demonstrated his famous under hand foul shot, even floating one in with his eyes closed. At the end of the clinic, Rick Barry spoke to the children about the importance of staying in school and keeping away from drinking and drugs. Dr. J gave an inspiring speech about the importance of choices.
The clinic served as a reward for the top PeacePlayers in the Jerusalem area. According to Program Director Danny Ourian: “Having the chance to see Dr. J and Rick Barry was a special opportunity for these children, many of whom have never seen a professional NBA player in person - let alone two of the greatest players of all time.” After the clinic, Rick Barry reminisced with PPI – ME program directors about his son, Brent Barry, San Antonio Spurs star, who traveled to PPI – Northern Ireland in the summer of 2008.
The clinic was a part of a “Legends” tour in Israel, featuring Dr. J and Rick Barry, along with fellow basketball legends Dominique Wilkins and Earl “The Pearl” Monroe. The “Legends” visited the Middle East to raise awareness for a youth village for underprivileged children in northern Israel.
Special thanks to the Municipality of Jerusalem for inviting PeacePlayers to the clinic.
