How Jared Armstrong Is Using Basketball to Combat Hate and Build Bridges Between Communities
In an era where division often overshadows unity, Jared Armstrong—a rising star in professional basketball—is proving that the game can be more than entertainment. Through his initiative to build basketball courts in Israel and Jewish communities in Philadelphia, Armstrong is leveraging sport as a tool to combat hate, foster dialogue, and create lasting connections across cultures. His work, which blends athleticism with activism, offers a blueprint for how athletes can use their platforms to drive meaningful social change.
From the Court to Community Building
Armstrong, who currently plays for the Philadelphia 76ers in the NBA G League, has made headlines not just for his on-court performances but for his off-court initiatives. His project, which involves constructing basketball courts in underserved neighborhoods in both Israel and Philadelphia, is designed to bring people together through a shared passion for the game.
Why basketball? The sport has a unique ability to transcend borders, languages, and cultural differences. Armstrong’s initiative taps into this universal language, using the court as a neutral ground where individuals from diverse backgrounds can engage, compete, and collaborate. The goal is simple: to replace hostility with camaraderie, one dribble at a time.
The Courts That Could Change Communities
Armstrong’s first court was inaugurated in Philadelphia’s Jewish Quarter last month, a neighborhood with a rich history but also one that has faced rising tensions in recent years. The court, funded through a combination of private donations and partnerships with local organizations, includes state-of-the-art facilities, including lighting for evening play and seating for spectators. A second court is currently under construction in Be’er Sheva, Israel, with plans to expand to additional cities in the coming year.
The courts are more than just concrete and hoops—they’re hubs for community events, youth clinics, and interfaith dialogues. Armstrong has partnered with local schools, synagogues, and sports organizations to ensure the facilities serve as gathering spaces year-round. “Basketball doesn’t care about religion, race, or politics,” Armstrong said in a recent interview. “It’s a game that brings people together, and that’s exactly what we’re trying to replicate off the court.”
“Basketball doesn’t care about religion, race, or politics. It’s a game that brings people together, and that’s exactly what we’re trying to replicate off the court.”
Measuring More Than Points
While Armstrong’s basketball career is still in its early stages—he averaged 12.3 points and 4.8 rebounds per game last season in the G League—the impact of his community work is already being felt. In Philadelphia, the new court has drawn youth from different backgrounds, including Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities, to participate in pickup games and organized leagues. Similar efforts in Israel have seen a surge in interest from Arab and Jewish teens, who have used the courts to break down barriers.
Data from local organizers shows a 40% increase in youth participation in basketball programs since the courts opened, with many citing the inclusive environment as a key factor. “We’ve seen kids who never played before stepping onto the court because they felt welcome,” said a spokesperson for the Philadelphia Jewish Sports Council. “That’s the power of sport—it gives people a reason to come together.”
Why This Matters Beyond Basketball
Armstrong’s initiative is part of a growing trend among athletes who are using their platforms to address social issues. From LeBron James’s I PROMISE School to Stephen Curry’s advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, professional athletes are increasingly recognizing their ability to influence change. Armstrong’s focus on combating hate through sport is particularly timely, given the rise in antisemitic incidents worldwide and the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Sport has long been a tool for diplomacy and reconciliation. The Olympic Games were founded on this principle, and modern examples—like the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, where North and South Korea marched together—prove that shared athletic experiences can foster understanding. Armstrong’s courts are the latest chapter in this story, but with a local, grassroots approach.
Hurdles on the Path to Unity
Despite the optimism surrounding the project, challenges remain. Funding is a constant concern, with Armstrong and his team relying on donations and sponsorships to keep the initiative afloat. Some community leaders have expressed skepticism about whether sport alone can bridge deep-seated divisions. “While basketball is a great starting point, we need to ensure these courts become part of broader efforts to foster dialogue and education,” said a representative from the Jewish Federations of North America.
Armstrong acknowledges these challenges but remains focused on the long-term vision. “We’re not naive,” he said. “We know this won’t solve everything overnight. But if You can get kids from different backgrounds playing together, laughing together, and competing together, we’re making progress.”
What’s Next for Armstrong’s Initiative
Armstrong’s plans are expanding beyond Philadelphia and Israel. He is in discussions with officials in London and Paris to bring similar courts to Jewish and Muslim communities in those cities. He is exploring partnerships with the NBA and FIBA to create a global network of “Unity Courts,” where local athletes and communities can collaborate on social initiatives.
For now, Armstrong is focused on ensuring the existing courts thrive. He plans to host an international basketball tournament this fall, inviting teams from Israel, Palestine, and the U.S. To compete in a spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect. “We want this to be more than just a tournament,” he said. “We want it to be a statement—that sport can bring people together, even when politics can’t.”
Key Takeaways
- Sport as a unifying force: Armstrong’s courts in Philadelphia and Israel are designed to bring together diverse communities through basketball, a universal language.
- Grassroots impact: Early data shows a 40% increase in youth participation in basketball programs since the courts opened, with many citing inclusivity as a key draw.
- Global potential: Armstrong is exploring partnerships with the NBA and FIBA to expand the initiative into cities like London and Paris.
- Long-term vision: The project aims to combine sport with education and dialogue to address deeper social divisions.
- Challenges ahead: Funding and skepticism remain hurdles, but Armstrong’s focus on youth engagement offers a path forward.
FAQ: How Can Athletes Use Sport for Social Change?
Q: What makes basketball a good tool for combating hate?
A: Basketball is a global sport with simple rules and minimal equipment, making it accessible to people of all backgrounds. Its fast-paced, high-energy nature also encourages teamwork and camaraderie, which can translate into real-world relationships.
Q: How can other athletes start similar initiatives?
A: Start small—partner with local organizations, secure funding through sponsorships or crowdfunding, and focus on a specific community need. Use your platform to amplify the message and attract volunteers. Armstrong’s success comes from his authenticity and commitment to long-term engagement.
Q: Are there risks to athletes getting involved in activism?
A: Yes. Athletes may face backlash from fans, sponsors, or even political groups. However, Armstrong’s approach—focusing on unity rather than political statements—has helped mitigate some of these risks. Transparency and consistency are key to maintaining credibility.
How You Can Get Involved
Armstrong’s initiative is still in its early stages, but there are ways you can support it or similar efforts in your community:
- Donate to local sports programs that promote inclusivity.
- Volunteer to organize youth basketball clinics in underserved areas.
- Partner with local organizations to create safe, welcoming spaces for sport.
- Follow Armstrong’s progress on Twitter and share his message with your network.
For more information on how to contribute, visit the Archysport Community Initiatives page or contact the Philadelphia Jewish Sports Council directly.
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