This past summer, NBA Math Hoops, the flagship program of Learn Fresh, was featured on Good Morning America, the nation’s leading morning news show.
An idea that began in a California classroom during the 90s has since grown into a global education initiative, impacting more than 1.4 million students across 13 countries. The feature was more than just a moment in the spotlight—it was a celebration of progress and a powerful reminder of the program’s growing potential.
But at the heart of this feature were two students whose journeys speak to the transformative power of the program.
Above, from left to right: Kylie (Thunder Math Hoops), Coach Brie (Learn Fresh), and Mackenzie (Little Rock SD Math Hoops)
Mackenzie, a 5th grader from Little Rock, Arkansas, discovered NBA Math Hoops through a community program hosted at her church. Unlike traditional school-based sites, this site welcomes all ages, creating a multigenerational space where adults and children learn and compete together. Mackenzie regularly teams up with her mother, Kimberly.
“I love NBA Math Hoops because I meet new people. I love the bonding time and playing the game with my mom. I also love it because it includes one of my favorite things - math.”
Just as Mackenzie found community and connection through NBA Math Hoops, Kylie’s story is one of personal growth and renewed confidence.
Kylie, an 8th grader from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, was first introduced to the program through her math teacher, Mrs. Nelson. Kylie had been struggling in math class, so Mrs. Nelson encouraged her to join NBA Math Hoops, as the program often helps students reframe their approach to learning thanks to its game-based model. The program clicked. Concepts that once felt frustrating and disconnected began to make sense. Her grades improved, but moreover, her confidence grew.
“Playing games like NBA Math Hoops helps math make sense to me,” reflected Kylie.
Both students continued to play throughout the school year. When applications opened for the Global Championship, their growing passion for the game led them to take the next big step - competing on a global stage.
Each year, the NBA Math Hoops Global Championship brings together a select group of students from across the world. Students must submit applications and receive letters of recommendation from educators. This year saw the largest number of applications in program history, from which Mackenzie and Kylie were chosen to join 22 other participants for this year’s event.
They met on the first night of the tournament and quickly bonded—unaware they’d soon be paired as official teammates, naming their team “Beautiful Minds.”
Kylie and Mackenzie cheer on fellow participants during a hands-on basketball activation.
Team Beautiful Minds stood out early in the tournament, not only for their gameplay but for their teamwork, leadership, and humility - all of which are core values that NBA Math Hoops strives to instill in all Math Hoopers.
On Wednesday night, only the second day of the tournament, Mackenzie, Kylie, and their families were invited to meet with Learn Fresh staff. The announcement was unexpected - they had been chosen to represent NBA Math Hoops on Good Morning America.
“I was completely overwhelmed with emotions,” said April, Kylie’s mother. “My heart felt like it might stop! I called my husband immediately to share the wonderful news. I knew Kylie would be thrilled to share her journey, especially how the Math Hoops program helped her connect with math in a meaningful way. It made math real for her, and now she is performing at or above grade level.”
The next day, Mackenzie and Kylie arrived at John Jay College, accompanied by their mothers, to film the segment. As they sat down with the producers via Zoom and shared their stories, it was clear that this was about more than a moment in the spotlight.
“It was a powerful moment to be in that room with Mackenzie and Kylie,” shared a Learn Fresh staff member. “As they told their stories, their moms were overwhelmed with emotion, hearing how the program helped their daughters build confidence and connect with others. This opportunity to showcase how they championed subjects they once found intimidating, and developed a confidence that had been wavering under the pressure of school, knowing this could help others connect - it was truly something else.”
Reflecting on the experience, Mackenzie said, “It meant a lot to me—my family, my friends, my church, and my community. I’ll definitely look back on this as something special. I’ll be putting it on my résumé for sure.”
Kimberly, her mom, echoed that sentiment. “When we received notice that Mackenzie was selected to participate and be interviewed by GMA, she had no clue of the magnitude of this event. GMA is seen across the world. We had family and friends calling and messaging because they watch GMA every day! Even though the segment only captured a few bits of the interview, it was such an amazing opportunity to see them talk about what brought them to the competition. We represent so many from our village, church, and community. The majority of us will live a lifetime and never, ever be on GMA.”
Crafting posters used during the final round of the tournament, a creativity activation led by GameChanger.
Beyond the spotlight, the moment carried something deeper for their families, their communities, and the next generation of students watching.
“Everyone was so proud to see two young girls from Arkansas and Oklahoma being recognized, not just for sports or academics, but for teamwork, sportsmanship, and math,” April shared. “What made it even more special was that they weren't featured because they were champions in sports or the best in math, but because they truly represented the mission of Learn Fresh, and proof that the program works!”
“We are incredibly proud of her hard work and her willingness to share her story to inspire other students, especially those who may struggle or simply learn differently.”
What aired on national television was just a glimpse into the larger story. For Kylie and Mackenzie, it was a moment of vulnerability and authenticity, and to represent something bigger than themselves. For Learn Fresh, it marked a milestone—a clear reminder of the mission that drives the work. When students feel seen, supported, and celebrated, they begin to believe in what they can achieve.
Watch the full segment here.