Pacers Foundation Receives Lilly Volunteers to Bring Basketball-Inspired Learning to Over 500 IPS Students

More than 500 Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) students tipped off a new season of learning today as the Pacers Foundation launches NBA Math Hoops at 13 schools in a single day. 

Developed by education nonprofit Learn Fresh, NBA Math Hoops is a fast-paced board game and STEM curriculum that uses real NBA and WNBA player statistics to build critical math skills. By combining the excitement of basketball with classroom learning, the program fosters engagement, collaboration and strategic thinking among students in grades 4-8. 

As part of the Lilly Global Day of Service, Lilly employees volunteered at all 13 IPS locations to help bring the program to life in classrooms across the city. 

“We wouldn’t be able to reach students across our community without the strong support of organizations like Lilly,” said Corey Wilson, Pacers Sports & Entertainment senior vice president of community engagement and Pacers Foundation board member. “We’re proud to be part of this powerful day of service that builds essential skills like critical thinking, teamwork and problem-solving for Hoosier students.” 

“The Lilly Global Day of Service is more than a tradition—it’s an opportunity for us to stand alongside our neighbors and contribute to the community,” said Cynthia Cardona, vice president of Social Impact at Lilly. “We go beyond our medicines and look beyond our walls to help create a world where every person has the opportunity to live their healthiest life possible. Our employees in Indianapolis and around the world come together on this day and share their time and talents to strengthen their communities.” 

Now entering its fourth season with IPS, NBA Math Hoops reached approximately 1,200 students across 27 schools last year. To date, the program has been implemented in more than 100 schools across Indiana. 

"Each Math Hoops season is a powerful reminder—and celebration—of what’s possible when communities come together for students,” said Nick Monzi, CEO and co-founder of Learn Fresh. “Thanks to the support provided during the Lilly Global Day of Service, we’re proud to bring hands-on, engaging STEM learning to classrooms across IPS. Together, we’re empowering educators and inspiring students across Indianapolis.” 

Schools and youth serving nonprofit organizations can receive free resources to offer the program in classrooms and after-school programs by reaching out to foundation@pacers.com. Students can independently access NBA Math Hoops by downloading the program’s mobile app at no cost on any Android or iOS device