Program Highlights:

While the journey begins with our high-energy kickoff, Books&Ball provides a continuous bridge of support to ensure our student-athletes are equipped for long-term success. Our year-round curriculum is built on four critical pillars:
  • Academic Excellence & College Readiness. We provide a year-round continuum of support, including academic tutoring and SAT/ACT prep. Our mission is to ensure every student-athlete is prepared for the social and academic rigors of higher education.
  • Financial Literacy & NIL Education. In partnership with financial experts and brand advisors, students learn core concepts of money management, budgeting, and investing. We also share resources and tips on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) to help athletes responsibly navigate income opportunities and build sustainable personal brands.
  • Mental Health & Wellness. Mental wellness is integrated into every facet of our programming. Through expert-led sessions and peer discussions, we normalize conversations around stress management, identity development, and emotional literacy to promote a healthy life-performance balance.
  • Career Exploration & Workforce Pathways. Through a series of interactive workshops, students complete career interest assessments and resume building. We connect our participants with mentors, internships, and direct pathways to workforce opportunities, helping them translate their athletic discipline into professional achievement.

2026 Selected High School:

Established in 1905, Inglewood High School is a historic cornerstone of the “City of Champions” with a long-standing legacy of athletic and academic pride. The school is currently undergoing a transformative $240 million modernization to provide a state-of-the-art learning environment for its diverse student body. As a resilient urban institution, it remains dedicated to nurturing the next generation of self-responsible leaders and critical thinkers through community-driven partnerships.

2026 Partners and Contributors: