In 10 years, when they ask the NBA's biggest stars who inspired them to greatness, the answer may not be Michael Jordan or Dwyane Wade. It might be Lil Wayne.
Weezy was one of a handful of celebrities who joined the seventh and eighth grade South Beach All Stars amateur athletic union team Saturday for Celebrity Court of Dreams, a charity game at American Airlines Arena. The kids had the chance to be coached by and even play alongside the stars, all to benefit their championship team.
Check out our photos from the game after the jump.
For South Beach AllStars AAU team organizer and sponsor Michael Lipman, the game of basketball reaches far beyond the court. "We want to teach these kids to make healthy choices in life," Lipman said. "To start with -- eating healthy, doing well in school, and respecting family and authority."
Through his Tickets of America and White Glove InternationalLil Wayne coached the YMCMB All Stars, and Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie coached the South Beach All Stars. Halfway through the game, however, Lil Wayne switched sides and joined the kids on their team.
The kids were treated to a surprise when Bow Wow showed up and helped carry the South Beach All Stars to a slim one-point win over YMCMB.
"Whatever dream you have, don't quit," Wayne told the kids in between horseplay. "Don't let anyone try and stop you."
The South Beach AllStars participate in activities all year long, including the Wade-Jordan competition this week between Division I seventh and eight graders. Players are literally recruited right off neighborhood basketball courts and school gyms across Miami.
For more information, visit facebook.com/southbeachallstars.
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