Las Vegas was the place to be as retired basketball players from across the country came together for a powerful Legends of Basketball event hosted by the Las Vegas Chapter of the NBRPA. The event brought together NBA alumni, community leaders, sponsors, and supporters for a night that mixed leadership, celebration, and real impact.
At its core, this wasn’t just a reunion. It was a reminder that the influence of NBA retired players doesn’t stop when the game ends.
Legends of Basketball Leadership Sets the Tone
The event was hosted by Doug Lee, President of the Las Vegas Chapter, alongside Jay Humphries, Vice President. The night also featured remarks from Antonio Davis, CEO of the National Basketball Retired Players Association (NBRPA), who addressed members and shared updates on what’s ahead for the organization.
The room was filled with respected former NBA players, including:
-
Lamar Murray
-
And many other Legends of Basketball members
Each person in attendance came to hear the direction of the NBRPA and celebrate the continued growth of the Legends of Basketball community.
From Meeting to Celebration
After the official chapter meeting wrapped up, the night shifted into celebration mode. One of the biggest moments came when Spencer Haywood received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Las Vegas Chapter — a well-earned recognition for his legacy on and off the court.
The evening highlighted what the Legends of Basketball represents: honoring the past while investing in the future.
Community Recognition for the JYD Project and Shooting for Peace
The impact extended beyond the room.
The City of Henderson presented official certificates to the JYD Project, which is backed by the NBRPA Las Vegas Chapter, recognizing its work in the community through Shooting for Peace.
In addition:
-
Nevada Senator Horford presented certificates to the JYD Project and Shooting for Peace
-
The Mayor’s Office of Las Vegas presented certificates to the JYD Project and the Las Vegas Chapter of the NBRPA
These recognitions reinforced how deeply the work of retired basketball players continues to reach into education, financial literacy, and youth development.
Tech Queen Partnership: Free AI Training + Real Job Placement for Ages 16+
Now here’s where things get even bigger, because this Legends of Basketball event isn’t just about celebrating the past. It’s also about creating real opportunities for the future.
At the event, Shooting For Peace formed a partnership with Duana Malone, aka “The Tech Queen” (Tech Queen Elite Training Institute / United States Help Desk Academy). With 40+ years in the technology industry, awards like Technology Woman of the Year, and a track record of building real tech training programs, this is the kind of collaboration that can change lives in our community.
Here’s the play:
-
Anyone 16 and over gets the chance to learn AI skills through a structured program
-
Training is FREE as long as participants commit to taking the course and get certified
-
Once certified, they can be connected to job placement opportunities so they can start working fast and earning real income
That’s the type of win that fits perfectly with the mission — taking the energy from retired NBA players, the momentum from community partners, and turning it into a pipeline that helps young people and adults step into the tech world the right way.
If you want to take advantage of the FREE resources offered, simply click here or the button below
Giving Back to the Legends
In a full-circle moment, the JYD Project presented $10,000 to the Legends of Basketball Las Vegas Chapter. The funds were designated to be distributed to chapter members in appreciation for their efforts and support that helped make the community recognitions possible.
It was a powerful reminder that this community supports each other — on and off the court.
Sponsors That Made the Night Possible
The event was supported by an impressive group of partners, including:
-
MGM Corporation
Each retired player in attendance received giveaways, great food, and the opportunity to connect with fellow NBA alumni in a relaxed and meaningful setting.
Financial Wisdom from Retired NBA Players
One of the most impactful moments of the night came when Shooting for Peace asked players to share one financial tip they wish they knew when they were younger.
The responses were real and consistent:
-
Learn about compounding interest
-
Understand credit early
-
Save your money
-
Invest wisely
-
Think long-term
These insights came straight from experience — lessons learned through success, mistakes, and growth.
Many of these interviews can be found on Instagram at @legendshootingforpeace, where fans can hear directly from retired basketball players sharing advice for the next generation.
Why Events Like This Matter
This Legends of Basketball event showed exactly why NBA retired players remain so important to the game and the community. Their stories, leadership, and willingness to give back continue to shape lives far beyond the hardwood.
From financial education to youth mentorship, these former players are proving that legacy is built after the final buzzer.
Stay Connected with the Legends
To see highlights, interviews, and behind-the-scenes moments from the event, follow along on Instagram:
@legendshootingforpeace
The work continues, and so does the impact.
By Bryan Burrell