Harlem Swish member sends drug-free message through comedy basketball

South Callaway student Denver Summers smiles at the crowd during an assembly after Harlem Swish member Valentino Willis lets Summers wear his basketball jacket.
South Callaway student Denver Summers smiles at the crowd during an assembly after Harlem Swish member Valentino Willis lets Summers wear his basketball jacket.

"Magic" Valentino Willis, a Harlem Swish Comedy Basketball member, taught elementary and middle school students in the South Callaway districts about the dangers of drugs and alcohol through comedy basketball on Friday, Nov. 8.

"Drugs are killing our future," Willis said.

Willis told the children the story of his friend, Len Bias, who died of drug use after being drafted by the Boston Celtics.

"That's what keeps me going to help these kids," Willis said.

About 20 students approached Willis after his routine to give him a hug and thank him for speaking at South Callaway. This reaction, Willis said, made him feel happy and is evidence that the children listened to his words.

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