OG Anunoby with representatives from Skechers, AdoptAClassroom.org, Westchester Hills School 29 in Yonkers, Mayor Spano, and other dignitaries. Photo by Maurice Mercado
The intramural boys’ and girls’ basketball teams and coaches at Westchester Hills School 29. Photo by Skechers courtesy of Alexandra Sapp
On Thursday, December 4, New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby, Skechers, and AdoptAClassroom.org delivered an unforgettable holiday surprise to students at Westchester Hills School 29 in Yonkers—presenting a $25,000 donation to support the school’s library and boys’ intramural basketball program, both heavily impacted by recent budget cuts.
What began as a simple school assembly quickly turned into an emotional celebration as OG walked into the gymnasium to cheers from the middle school students. He spoke about the importance of education and reading—values his parents instilled in him growing up—and then personally helped gift Skechers basketball shoes to the boys’ and girls’ teams while answering questions from the aspiring young athletes.
The donation will expand the school’s library with more inclusive reading materials — including some of OG’s childhood favorites — and restore much-needed athletic resources, ensuring students have both academic and extracurricular support heading into the new year.
From OG on why it is important to give back to his community: “I think it’s important because we were all kids once, and we all had to go to school. Academics, school, reading — those things are very important. As an athlete, I think you should remind kids of that. School and athletics go together. Doing the right things in the classroom — not getting in trouble, doing your homework — that carries over into sports. Good habits off the court lead to good habits on the court.”
As part of the initiative, an additional $10,000 donation was also made on behalf of OG Anunoby to P.S. 200 The James McCune Smith School, helping build an inclusive book collection for their students.
Photo by Skechers courtesy of Alexandra Sapp
This moment is part of Skechers’ fifth consecutive year partnering with AdoptAClassroom.org through its Register Round-Up program, which has raised more than $670,000 since 2021—supporting over 17,000 students in under-resourced schools across the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
With the holidays approaching, this event delivered one of those inspiring stories that truly resonates — a community uplifted, students energized, and a meaningful investment in education and youth athletics.
