NFL Player Jaelen Strong lit up La Salle University’s Tom Gala Arena on Sunday July 1st. With the goal to bring excitement to his community, Jaelen Strong introduced and hosted the first annual “Youth First Me Last Celebrity Classic”. Presented by his organization SNPGD, Jaelen teamed up with Brooklyn Nets small forward Rondae Hollis-Jefferson to coach the celebrities for Team SNPGD versus Team CHAP.

Celebrities unite for the 1st annual “Youth First Me Last Classic” hosted by NFL player Jaelen Strong. Photo by Brandon C. Ballard

 

The Celebrity Basketball Classic consisted of two exciting games between Strong’s Team SNPGD and Hollis-Jefferson’s Team CHAP. The game easily accomplished the goal of enjoyment for attendees, with fancy footwork, crazy crossovers, behind the back balls and knee dribbles (compliments of Gillie Da Kid).   Celebrity players included personalities from a variety of industries including sports, film, music and entertainment. Celebrities balling for the youth included director Benny Boom, producer Jahlil Beats, rapper Chill Moody, baseball phenom Mo’ne Davis, rapper and actor Gillie Da Kid, speaker and enthusiast Wallo, comic and actor Rich Dollarz, comedian GheeFunny, NFL players Daryl Worley, Will Parks and Jihad Ward, Penn State’s Shep Garner, NBA players the Morris twins and many more.

 

Both the games were full of energy and exhilaration. All the players brought their superstar qualities and skills. Who could help but notice Mo’ne Davis on the court as the only female and possibly the youngest out there handling the ball? With a mean spin move, she held her own and was such an inspiration. Having a few funnymen in the game offered comedic humor as they tussled over the ball and shouted hilariously to the refs and each other.

 

All jokes aside, Jaelen Strong presented an amazingly positive environment and weekend for the youth in his community. The hearts and efforts of Strong and celebrity participants did not go unnoticed. When asked why he participated, Wallo stated, “The youth need someone to talk to them real.” He continued to vow, “I will always love our people. Even when they don’t know how to love us, I am going to teach us how to love us.” As founder, Jaelen created SNPGD as a lifestyle brand built around principles of physical and mental wellness, endless striving toward goals and service to the community. In addition to the “Youth First Me Last Celebrity Classic”, over the weekend SNPGD also presented the fifth annual “Legends Of Tomorrow “Football Camp; a free session focusing on physical conditioning.

 

It is always a pleasure to see celebrities give back and make a positive impact. Founded five years ago, SNPGD is dedicated to being positive role models for their community, especially the youth. For more information go to snpgd.co