Former Pro Chris Singletary Inspires Youth at R.I.S.E. Empowerment League Skills Clinic

Chicago, IL– The sound of bouncing basketballs, sneakers squeaking and cheers of encouragement filled the gym this past weekend as the R.I.S.E. Youth Empowerment League (powered by Dicks Sporting Good) hosted a co-ed skills clinic led by former professional basketball player Chris Singletary, at Homan Square Park District on Chicago’s westside.

More than just drills and jump shots, the clinic became a powerful experience of mentorship, motivation and character building. Boys and girls of all skill levels took the floor together, eager to learn not only the fundamentals of basketball, but also the values that the R.I.S.E. League is built upon: Re-engage, Integrity, Support, and Empower. Singletary, known for his successful collegiate career at Kent State and his years playing professionally overseas, brought the same energy and determination to the young athletes that he carried throughout his career.

“Basketball gave me opportunities, but I learned character keep you there,” Singletary told the group. “What you do off the court is just as important as what you do on it.”

Throughout the day, participants rotated through stations focusing on ball handling, defense, shooting mechanics and teamwork. But between each drill, there were lessons about discipline, resilience and leadership. Singletary emphasized to the youth that the game can be a vehicle for life success and teach them how to push through challenges, work as a team and carry themselves with confidence. The smiles on their faces, the energy in the gym and the bonds being formed told the story of why programs like R.I.S.E. matter so deeply to the community.

League Director, Laron Wade shared his vision for the league: "R.I.S.E. Youth Empowerment League isn’t just about creating athletes, it’s about creating leaders." To have someone like Chris pour into our youth, not only with skills but with wisdom, shows these athletes that they are valued and capable of greatness. Wade stated "the league is viewed as a nurturing environment where participants are guided, uplifted and inspired."

The co-ed group dynamic also reflected one of the league’s strongest values, inclusion. Every participant, regardless of gender or skill level, was given the same encouragement, the same chance to grow and the same belief that they could achieve more than they imagined. The R.I.S.E. Youth Empowerment League plans to continue hosting skill clinics, community events and mentorship opportunities leading into its full season. With knowledgeable leaders like Singletary involved, the future of the league and the future of the young people it served, looks brighter than ever.

-Beyond Athletics Media 2025