San Antonio – On Monday afternoon, Harlandale High School’s basketball teams received a surprise visit from San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell. Partnering with Dick’s Sporting Goods, Vassell presented brand‑new shoes for the school’s varsity squads and handed a $10,000 check to the athletic department.
Community impact
Vassell explained that the visit was about more than basketball. “I’ve been blessed in this position to be able to give back, and I feel it’s a calling for me and my family,” he said. “The game is bigger than just basketball.” The donation will help fund equipment, travel expenses, and other needs of Harlandale’s sports programs.
For many students, the gift carries a deeper meaning. Sophomore center Perla Valenzuela of the girls’ basketball team, a lifelong Spurs fan, described the moment as “ecstatic.” She added, “Some of our parents can’t afford this, so getting this gift is a big thing. We’re from the South Side, a poorer neighborhood, and his generosity inspires me to do better with my life.”
Student reactions
Boys’ junior point guard Ethan De La Rosa said he was caught off guard. “I was shocked. I did not know that this was going to happen,” he said. “I was not expecting to see an NBA player here at school, and to get shoes from him was a great experience.”
Vassell recalled his own high‑school experience, noting how former NBA player Zach Graham’s camps had helped him. “I remember he used to have basketball camps back at my high school and just gave a lot of knowledge and help. It was super important, and I’m trying to do that for the next generation,” Vassell said.
Spurs‑South Side connection
The Spurs have long enjoyed passionate support from San Antonio’s South Side, and Vassell’s visit reinforced that bond. Local residents praised the gesture as a tangible example of professional athletes giving back to the neighborhoods that raise them.
Harlandale’s athletic director expressed gratitude, noting that the $10,000 will be earmarked for immediate needs such as new uniforms, facility upgrades, and travel costs for upcoming tournaments.
Looking ahead
Both the boys’ and girls’ teams are gearing up for a competitive season, and the new shoes are expected to boost morale and performance on the court. Vassell’s message to the students was clear: hard work, faith, and community support can open doors to future success.
“I want to be able to impact everybody,” Vassell said. “The game is bigger than just basketball.”
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
