New Balance has officially tipped off its grassroots basketball efforts, hosting the first-ever Beantown Elite Experience at The TRACK on the brand’s Boston campus. The four-day event welcomed top male and female high school players from the classes of 2026 through 2028, along with a support person, for a program designed to prepare them for success both on and off the court.
Athletes participated in on-court skill development, but the camp’s scope extended far beyond basketball drills. Sessions in financial literacy, personal branding, NIL opportunities, and professional exposure were built into the schedule, ensuring each player left with tools to succeed at the next level. New Balance professional and NIL athletes Tyrese Maxey, Darius Garland, Aaliyah Crump, and Chris Livingston played central roles throughout the week, leading workouts, joining panel discussions, and providing mentorship that underscored the importance of leadership and preparation.
The experience culminated with the presentation of the Terrence Clarke Award, honoring the late Boston native whose legacy continues to inspire the next generation. Jordan Smith Jr. (Men’s No. 2 – Class of 2026) and Micah Ojo (Women’s No. 7 – Class of 2027) received the honor for their ability to shine on and off the floor while uplifting those around them.
A unique element of the Beantown Elite Experience was the inclusion of mentors, with each athlete able to bring a parent, coach, or guardian to Boston. Dedicated programming for mentors focused on topics such as managing adversity, guiding NIL decisions, and supporting philanthropic opportunities, reflecting New Balance’s belief that community is essential in building future stars.
With its inaugural Beantown Elite Experience, New Balance has not only created a new platform for the nation’s rising talent but also reinforced its holistic approach to basketball culture. And while the brand pushes forward at the grassroots level, fans can already shop the latest evolution of its performance line — the Fresh Foam BBv3, available now at newbalance.com.
