A pair of legendary Dallas Mavericks walked down memory lane to support Dallas-based students as part of the Exchange Club’s “Reunion Towers” fundraiser.
Former Mavs guards Rolando Blackman (1981-92) and Derek Harper (1983-94, 1996-97) joined the Exchange Club of East Dallas in late August as featured guests at its premier fundraising event.
The Exchange Club used this year’s Reunion Towers theme to recognize Blackman and Harper for their accomplishments on the court and contributions to the community that expand well beyond their playing careers.
The Dallas Mavericks organization was a presenting sponsor and donated $25,000 in addition to several big-ticket auction items that contributed to the estimated $180,000 raised that evening.
“We cannot thank the Mavs organization enough for its contributions to the success of our event,” said Mike Buchanan, co-event chair for the Exchange Club of East Dallas. “Through the generosity of the patrons—notably among them the Mavs—the Exchange Club will be able to continue assisting 20 young adults with their college educations and financing the construction of much-needed capital improvements at the DISD schools we support.”
The record proceeds will directly support over 7,000 public school children in East Dallas through various avenues like supplying uniforms, hosting book fairs, providing no-cost eye exams, offering college scholarships, and sponsoring an annual major project.
During this year’s event, the Exchange Club announced its plans for “The Rolando Blackman and Derek Harper Basketball Court” at O.M. Roberts Elementary. Additionally, the Club awarded five scholarships to prospective college students in honor of Blackman, Harper, and their families.
Dallas Mavs CEO Cynt Marshall offered inspirational remarks connecting the symbolism of the retired jersey numbers 22 and 12 to the powerful and positive presence Blackman and Harper provide the North Texas community.
“The number 22 is associated with manifesting achievements and building dreams into reality,” she began. “Rolando, you have not only worked on making your dreams come true, but I have watched you work nonstop to enable children to dream and achieve big things.
“The number 12 is associated with completeness— months in the year, hours on the clock, minutes in an NBA quarter. Derek, we’ve called on you often to complete our team, whether it’s in the broadcast booth or the locker room. You are the ultimate team player, always willing to complete the roster, always willing to make things better.
“May the youth who will play on this newly constructed court embody the spirit of 22 and 12 combined. May they dream big, achieve the impossible, show up for others and complete the team, just as both of you have done.”
Blackman and Harper capped off the night by sharing a walk down memory lane alongside sports radio host George Dunham.
The evening’s events highlighted the on-court success of the legendary Mavericks duo and their continuous efforts as champions within the community.
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