Darius Lee Memorial Classic: Honoring a Life Through Community and Basketball

Honoring Darius Lee's Legacy

• 🏀 The Darius Lee Memorial Classic celebrated the life of the 21-year-old D1 college basketball player, three years after he was fatally shot.
• 💖 His family is continuing his legacy through the D23 Foundation, which supports the community where Darius grew up.

The D23 Foundation's Impact

• 🌟 Founded in Darius Lee's name and using his college basketball number, the D23 Foundation has aided thousands through scholarships and back-to-school stipends.
• 🤝 The foundation aims to ensure that every child who steps forward is a testament to Darius's life and spirit.

Community Celebration and Support

• 🎒 At the memorial classic, families enjoyed basketball, food, and time with loved ones, with donated backpacks and sneakers being distributed.
• 😂 Darius is remembered for his laughter, fun-loving nature, and as a jokester, embodying the spirit of the event.

Ongoing Investigation and Family's Grief

• 💔 Darius's mother shared that the family still seeks closure, as the investigation into the June 20, 2022 shooting that killed Lee and injured eight others remains ongoing with no arrests made.
• 🗣️ Mayor Adams highlighted efforts to remove guns from city streets, expressing hope that the perpetrator will come forward.

Living by Darius's Motto

• ✨ Loved ones are inspired by Darius Lee's motto: "Do it the Lee way. Believe in yourself no matter what people say."
• 🗓️ August 8th, which would have been Darius's 25th birthday, is officially recognized as Darius Lee Day in Harlem.