LeBron James surprises students at I Promise School with $1 million to build new gym

LeBron James shocked his kids at the I PROMISE School (IPS) by revealing that the DICK'S Sporting Goods Foundation had awarded him a $1 million Sports Matter grant to construct a brand-new gym.

 In order to provide a secure environment for physical education and after-school sports, DICK'S and its Foundation established Sports Matter in 2014.  Millions of young athletes have benefited from their more than $50 million contribution to support thousands of youth sports initiatives.

 King James himself made the unexpected announcement to the assembled IPS students at St. Vincent – St. Mary High School.

James remarked, "To my kids, this is more than just a gym. Without the coaches and teachers who looked out for us and the opportunities we had, I can't imagine where my friends and I would be today."

 IPS is a public school that was established in collaboration with the LeBron James Family Foundation and Akron Public Schools.  It provides services to 240 of the most vulnerable third and fourth graders in Akron Public School.

 According to data supplied by the school, every student at IPS began the academic year in the bottom 25th percentile and was performing below grade level.

They have made remarkable progress in less than a year; in reading and math, 90% of them have met or beyond their individual growth targets, surpassing their classmates around the district.

 Regarding the school's performance, James remarked, "I think the possibilities are endless for these kids and the outcomes we're witnessing are only the beginning."

 "I saw it with my teammates growing up, and I see it with my kids now," he added.

 Research indicates that children who participate in sports and physical activity had better test scores, better grades, fewer absences, and a higher likelihood of attending college.

Due to financial constraints and a lack of facilities, children in low-income communities have less opportunity to participate in sports.

 James remarked, "I'm thrilled we're able to provide a space for that growth at the I PROMISE School. The benefits of playing sports can extend to every aspect of your life."