A new court provided by The Dallas Mavericks Foundation was unveiled for youths at the Fort Worth Juvenile Detention Center on Thursday afternoon.
The Mavs Foundation, a nonprofit associated with the Dallas Mavericks, has in the last 28 years provided grant funding totaling more than $11 million to nonprofit organizations serving women, children and families in need. In addition to grants, The Mavs Foundation has built 61 safe “Learn & Play” spaces throughout the North Texas community, including 32 basketball courts and 28 “Reading & Learning” centers.
This new court at the detention center, located at 2701 Kimbo Road, is the foundation’s 33rd basketball court. It’s a place where the power of second chances, mentorship and positive outlets matter, said Katie Edwards, president of The Mavs Foundation.
“We believe in your future, and we hope that when you step on this court, whether it’s to clear your mind, to build your basketball skills, or just to enjoy the game, I hope you’ll remember that you have great opportunities for growth, for change and for greatness in your life,” Edwards told about two dozen youths at the dedication.
One of the guest speakers was former NBA player and current Mavericks assistant coach Jared Dudley, who spoke about the importance of decision making and believing in oneself.
“We can give you a basketball court, we can talk to you when you get out there, but what are the choices you’re going to make?” Dudley,said. “Do you believe in yourself? Do you believe in your greatness? Because we believe in you. That’s why we’re here.”
Tarrant County Juvenile Services applied for a $50,000 grant from The Mavs Foundation in August 2023. It was approved last summer; refurbishment of the gym was completed this week.
The refurbishment included repairing and refinishing the wood flooring, painting the walls, outlining the court in Mavs blue and adding a Mavs logo, new goals and backboards, and new basketball equipment.
After the speakers were done, The Mavs Foundation held a clinic featuring warmups and basketball drills.
Jarreau Grant, deputy assistant director of Tarrant County Juvenile Services, says the court is a space that can accommodate other activities, such as relay races and volleyball, and will help staff engage with the youths in a positive way. He said he knew the court needed repairs and knowing the work of The Mavs Foundation in the Dallas area, he knew where to call.
“I hope they can learn and work together as a team, develop their skills, do something positive, have activities to engage with the staff and just burn off steam in a positive way,” Grant said.
This story was originally published June 12, 2025 at 11:02 PM.