About the Program
One Court. One People.
Hoops of One uses basketball to unite middle school and high school youth from diverse backgrounds — countering antisemitism, Islamophobia, and all forms of hate through the power of sport, education, and human connection.
A 2026 New York City pilot in partnership with NBA star and human rights activist Enes Kanter Freedom, Hoops of One is a research-backed five-phase journey — from first dribble to lifelong friendship — modeled after proven programs like PeacePlayers International and grounded in Contact Theory from Harvard and Yale.
140%
Rise in antisemitic incidents since 2019 (ADL)
44%
Americans say Muslims face 'great' discrimination (Pew)
20yr
High in hate crimes across major U.S. cities
3×
More lasting friendships formed through shared personal experiences (PeacePlayers RCT)
The Model
A Five-Phase Journey
Court Day
Day 1Mixed-faith basketball clinics for ages 13–17. Drills, scrimmages, and team challenges where students play alongside — not against — each other. Coaches introduce cooperation and trust exercises grounded in Contact Theory.
Learn Together
Weeks 2–4Guided interfaith workshops with trained educators. Stories of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and shared pain. Interactive exercises on identity, empathy, and belonging in small peer groups — no adults.
Break Bread
Month 2Shared meals at partner homes, mosques, and synagogues. Cultural exchange dinners with food, music, and stories. Field trips to Holocaust museums, Islamic art exhibits, and houses of worship.
Build Something
Month 3Mixed-faith teams tackle a real community project — refurbishing courts, organizing events, or supporting local causes. Mentorship with NBA alumni and community leaders.
Lead Forward
OngoingGraduates become peer ambassadors in their schools. Annual alumni reunion tournament and leadership summit. First cohort helps recruit and mentor the next generation.
Track Record
This Has Already Happened
A 10-day camp at the Jerusalem YMCA brought together 40 Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Druze children ages 10–15. Partnered with Bnai Zion, Athletes for Israel, and Together Vouch for Each Other US.
Sinai Temple hosted 65 kids of all faiths for a landmark interfaith event featuring Enes Kanter Freedom (Muslim) and Ryan Turell (Jewish). Organized with the Muslim Coalition for America.
Enes Kanter Freedom partnered with Peace Academy West Texas to host a free basketball camp for youth ages 6–18 at Odessa High School, open to all kids with free admission.
"We can use it as a tool to bring people together. We can be different colors, from different religions, but everyone loves basketball!"
— Enes Kanter Freedom