About Us

In the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, there lives a man whose remarkable journey began amidst the harsh realities of Chicago’s streets. His name is Kurt Jones, affectionately known as “Big Kurt.” Growing up in the Windy City, Kurt and his best friend, Benji, shared a deep love for basketball, a passion that offered hope and escape from the challenges of their tough neighborhood.

From a young age, Kurt and Benji dreamed of making it big in the basketball world. The two spent countless hours practicing on the cracked asphalt courts of their local park, refining their skills and nurturing their dreams. For them, basketball wasn’t just a game; it was a lifeline.

But tragedy struck one fateful day during their teenage years. A senseless act of gun violence claimed Benji’s life, leaving Kurt heartbroken and grappling with unimaginable grief. The loss of his best friend created a void that seemed impossible to fill.

Despite the pain, Kurt channeled his sorrow into determination. Honoring Benji’s memory became his mission, and basketball became his platform. Kurt’s talent and perseverance propelled him into professional basketball, where he achieved what he and Benji once dreamed of. Kurt played in the NBA for the Milwaukee Bucks and the Phoenix Suns. Although undrafted, his tenacity and skill earned him a successful international career, playing in Italy, Morocco, and the Dominican Republic. Known for his scoring, rebounding, and defensive prowess, Kurt was widely respected on and off the court.

After retiring from professional basketball, Kurt returned to his roots with a renewed purpose. Inspired by Benji’s memory and his own experiences, he created a wellness program centered around basketball. His program, Play21 Wellness Academy, is built on the belief that basketball can be more than a sport—it can be a vehicle for healing and connection.

At the core of Kurt’s program is the globally renowned basketball game of 21, a game he and Benji often played. Remembering their countless hours on the court, Kurt recognized the healing power of basketball. Week after week, individuals from all walks of life gather at Play21 to dribble, pass, and shoot their way to both physical and emotional well-being. Whether battling depression, stress, or anxiety, participants find solace, support, and a sense of community under Kurt’s guidance.

Through his program, Kurt teaches more than just basketball fundamentals. He instills resilience, perseverance, and the importance of forging connections. Each game of 21 strengthens bonds, lifts spirits, and proves that even in the face of tragedy, there is room for healing and redemption.

Though Kurt can never bring back his beloved friend Benji, he finds purpose in transforming his pain into hope for others. With every basket made and every victory celebrated at Play21, Kurt feels Benji’s spirit guiding him, a constant reminder of their shared dream and the power of basketball to change lives. Today, “Big Kurt” stands as a beacon of hope, proof that even in life’s darkest moments, there is light to be found and shared.