Indy Standard

Dr. Michelle Jackson, from her position within Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), observes the positive impact of NBA Math Hoops on students' skills in mathematics, statistics, and strategy. This board game uses real-life statistics from NBA and WNBA players to make math and data analysis engaging and competitive. It is designed to increase STEM engagement among underrepresented students.

"Just like a well-executed play in the final seconds, this program has brought a new level of excitement and engagement to math classes, making students eager to take their shot at solving complex problems," said Dr. Michelle Jackson, the executive director of teaching and learning for the 31,000-student district. "The program’s hands-on, game-based learning approach makes complex concepts more accessible and enjoyable."

Jackson highlighted that familiar elements like the NBA and WNBA brands help build student confidence and connection with the curriculum. This has led to noticeable improvements in academic performance.

Now entering its third year, IPS's NBA Math Hoops program is expanding from 13 schools last year to 27 schools this year, with over 1,190 students expected to participate. The expansion is supported by Pacers Sports and Entertainment, the Eli Lilly Foundation, and Learn Fresh.

On Sept. 26, William McKinley School 39 will be recognized as the “Media School” for kicking off the program district-wide due to its achievements in producing the 2024 NBA Math Hoops Global Champion and Outstanding Educator of the Year.

The program has already reached 5,000 IPS students who solved nearly six million math problems during the last school year. A notable success story is Ileana Mora-Gomez from William McKinley School 39 who won the Global Championship title in New York in June.

Jacob Gregory, coach of William McKinley's Math Hoops Club and a math teacher there said: "The program at William McKinley is only successful because of the individuals committed to it... we saw it as a way to actively engage, excite, and encourage our students." He added that their commitment matched that of community partners like Eli Lilly Foundation and Pacers Foundation.

“Students and staff walk our building wearing their Math Hoops shirts with pride,” Gregory noted. He emphasized that their success stems from full support from staff at William McKinley for programs provided by Eli Lilly Foundation and Pacers Foundation.