Welcome to Broadway Stages’ Spotlight, where we feature local shops, restaurants, organizations, individuals, and venues that provide goods and services to our community. This week, we bring you the story of a local nonprofit, 5 Boros Basketball!

When Broadways Stages thinks of the neighborhoods where we live and work, we take great pride in the fact that there are so many good people who are commitment to giving back; something that is also part of our business philosophy  Today, we shine the spotlight one such neighbor, Rick Atson, Director of 5 Boros Basketball (a.k.a. 5 Boros and 5B), a non-profit youth basketball program.

A Greenpoint native, Atson loved playing basketball when he was growing up. His passion for the game and commitment to community gave way to 5 Boros Basketball that has been empowering disadvantaged youth living in NYC since 2010. In 13 years, 5 Boros have earned over 300 championships and helped to change lives! At 5B, the game of basketball is used in tandem with academic support to help strengthen the participants’ self-esteem, self-discipline, leadership, teamwork, and generate a sense of accomplishment.

5B is open to boys ages eight to eighteen and is completely free for all participants. Atson has said he never wanted to tell a kid they can’t play because they don’t have money. No one is turned away and he has players from each of the 5 boroughs, living up to its name, and hosting 50 to 60 kids each season!

The caliber of the program has nurtured talented players, offering a better chance of obtaining scholarships, which can make a profound difference in making college affordable. In fact, over 50 players have gone on to play Division 1 NCAA Basketball on full scholarships. Now that is something to brag about!! 

Beyond the court, Atson and his crew also look out for the players. They provide one-on-one tutoring and mentoring, particularly those considered most at risk. The tutoring/mentoring program encourages the kids to stay in school, stay healthy, and be team players. The program also provides exposure to successful leaders in corporate America and their local communities. The program continues to positively impact the participants, improving their lives. But don’t take our word for it. You can follow the achievements of 5 Boros and its young men by following them on Instagram and Facebook.

To ensure all those who want to participate can do so free of charge, 5 Boros depends on the kindness and generosity of sponsors. If you or your organization want to support this worthy cause, click HERE. One hundred percent of all donations go directly to helping the kids, from  obtaining gym space, to travel expenses and the cost of entering tournaments.

Next time you hear the sounds of kids playing on the courts of your neighborhood or in the local gym, remember that it’s not just a game, it’s also the opportunity for a college education, and maybe even a career. The discipline and commitment to the game can translate into success!

Our sincere thanks and accolades to Rick Atson for his continued dedication to our community and the future of our youth.