Scholarships given to three students at big sports games
Madison Square Garden, New York City, USAFri Apr 17 2026
A Brooklyn student named Levi Butler got a big surprise when he received a $60, 000 scholarship at a Knicks game. The money came from a foundation that helps kids in tough situations. Butler met Jalen Brunson, a Knicks player, who gave him the check before the game started. After the game, Brunson handed Butler a signed jersey too.
This wasn’t the first time Butler’s family connected with the foundation. Years ago, when his younger brother got sick, they went to games together and even went on shopping trips with the team. Life took a hard turn when his brother later passed away, but Butler turned that pain into a goal to help others. Now, he’s planning to study at NYU Langone Health and Sunrise Day Camp to support kids like his brother.
A student from the Bronx named Wynter Gray also received $60, 000 to go to an HBCU, a college made for students of color. The scholarship honors Willis Reed, a basketball legend known for his hard work and leadership. Gray got her scholarship from Reed’s wife, some former Knicks players, and a local politician during a game against Toronto. The money means she can focus on school without worrying about money.
A third student, Jack Pelzar, always loved the Rangers hockey team. He got his scholarship from the team captain right before a game. Pelzar faced a health battle of his own when he was diagnosed with epilepsy as a child. He went through several surgeries but is now using his experiences to study medicine. His plan? Help others who are dealing with tough health issues.
https://localnews.ai/article/scholarships-given-to-three-students-at-big-sports-games-c99eb3fc
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