East’s Victory Nets Special Olympics Indiana an Additional $240,000

INDIANAPOLIS — The NBA All-Stars set a scoring record Sunday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, and as a result, Special Olympics Indiana scored big as well.

As one of two charity partners of the NBA All-Star Game, Special Olympics Indiana was guaranteed to receive $100,000 plus $950 for each assist. In teaming with the East squad, Special Olympics Indiana receives an additional $240,000 as a result of the 211-186 victory over the West. An additional $7,500 also will be donated to Special Olympics Indiana as part of the influencers trick shot contributions.

In total, Special Olympics Indiana will receive nearly $450,000 toward supporting the more than 19,000 athletes within its programs.

The excitement did not end there for the more Special Olympics Indiana athletes in attendance, who presented NBA All-Star rings to players on Team East and watched the game from near-courtside. Many of those athletes also competed Saturday as part of the Jr. NBA festivities at the Indiana Convention Center, putting their skills on display for a packed crowd.

“The entire experience was life-changing for the athletes,” Special Olympics Indiana President and CEO Jeff Mohler said. “Just to be part of the weekend was absolutely incredible. We’re so thankful that we have great partners in our community like the Pacers. These funds will play a crucial role in expanding the reach of health initiatives and sports programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities.”

The night was made even more special as Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton delivered an exceptional performance with 32 points, including 10 three-point baskets. In a heartwarming pregame moment, Special Olympics Indiana athlete John Wheeler had the honor of presenting Haliburton with his NBA All-Star ring.

Wheeler is the team captain for the Shelby County Magic basketball team, one of the four teams that played Saturday at the Civic Center.

“It was an experience of a lifetime,” he said, “and I will never forget it.”

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About Special Olympics Indiana

Special Olympics Indiana is a nonprofit organization that is part of the global Special Olympics movement, created by the Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. Foundation for the benefit of persons with intellectual disabilities. Its vision is an inclusive world, driven by the power of sport, through which people with intellectual disabilities live active, healthy, and fulfilling lives