Patchogue, NY – The St. Joseph's University, New York (L.I.) men's basketball team spent time raising awareness to prevent adolescent suicide hosted by Harold Hoops for Hope on Sunday afternoon.

Founded in 2022 by Harold Teller, 14, a member of graduate student Spencer Malloy's AAU basketball team, Harold's Hoops for Hope aims to combine his love of basketball with raising awareness about teen suicide and mental health.

At Sunday's event, the Golden Eagles men's basketball team acted as mentors, engaging with middle and high school students, sharing their experiences as athletes, and offering guidance as role models. Other participants included the Long Island Nets, Lester Quinones (former Golden State Warrior), and Gary Brown (former Green Bay Packer and Super Bowl Champion).

"Harold's Hoops for Hope is an incredible initiative. To see someone as young as Harold step up and work toward bettering his community is truly inspiring," said Malloy. "The Simplay event was a fantastic way to bring people together in support of mental health awareness and teen suicide prevention. Harold is making a real difference."

SJLI head coach AJ Uhl also praised the event: "I'm thrilled our team had the chance to be part of Harold's Hoops for Hope this weekend. The doors Harold is opening for young people to express their feelings and seek help through positive outlets are invaluable. He's an impressive young man, and his organization will undoubtedly impact countless lives across Long Island."

Harold's Hoops for Hope has raised over $13K for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP).

Click HERE for more information about Harold's Hoops for Hope

Click HERE for more information about the AFSP

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