Chris Fox and Taurean Uthman, directors at Hope City Rocks Basketball, make a compelling case that Rochester is one of the most overlooked basketball cities in America and that the pipeline producing NBA players, Division One stars and college athletes runs straight through their program.

Discover how Hope, which stands for Having Only Positive Expectations, is developing student athletes from fourth grade through high school by pairing elite basketball training with STEM enrichment, financial literacy, social emotional learning and mentorship. Learn why getting out of Rochester and losing badly on the road is one of the most important things a young player can experience, and how that philosophy applies just as powerfully in the classroom as it does on the court.

Hear how Chris and Taurean, both former high level college players themselves, volunteer every hour they give to this program because they believe in the mission that deeply. With over 120 kids enrolled and an average cost of more than $1,500 per player before travel, the program runs almost entirely on grants, donations and sponsorships, and financial aid is available so that no kid is turned away because of what their family can or cannot afford.

Chris and Taurean also share what basketball uniquely offers a divided city, a sanctuary where race, religion and background disappear and what remains is family, competition and hope.

Businesses can sponsor the program and receive recognition on uniforms, the website and social media. To get involved or learn more visit bballhope.com and follow on Instagram at @rochestercityrocks and @bballhope.