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For the second year in a row, the NBA Foundation made its mark at AfroTech in partnership with the Houston Rockets, championing the brilliance and creativity of the next generation of leaders in sports and tech. This year, the NBA Foundation sponsored 100 students to experience AfroTech firsthand. Three days filled with inspiration, networking and access to industry leaders shaping the future of sports and technology. Where Collaboration Meets Creativity On Wednesday, October 29, the NBA Foundation hosted an event that celebrated the power of collaboration, innovation and community, shining a spotlight on Houston-area students who are using technology to drive change. One of the week’s highlights was the Tech Challenge, a design thinking competition where 25 of the 100 students presented forward-thinking ideas inspired by real-world prompts from the Houston Rockets Community Relations department. Students from Rice University, Prairie View A&M, Texas Southern University and the University of Houston showcased bold solutions rooted in creativity, teamwork, and social impact. When it came time to announce a winner, the “TIGER VISIONARIES” from Texas Southern University stood out with an impressive, community-driven concept that earned them the top spot. Building Futures Through Opportunity Judges Lanny Smith, Natara Branch and Joe Branch offered thoughtful insights and encouragement throughout the competition, while NBA Foundation partners Beyond the Ball and Amplitude guided students through the challenge, helping them refine their ideas and bring them to life. From the excitement in the room to the innovation on display, AfroTech Houston once again proved the power of representation, access and opportunity. “The Tech Challenges offers us an opportunity to activate on our mission and provide students with early career exposure”, said Genisha Metcalf, NBA Foundation Partnerships Lead.
