Back in February 2020 the announcement was made that Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki would be the keynote speaker for After-School All-Stars North Texas’ Rising Stars Luncheon the following May. But the pandemic arrived in March wiping out most in-person events for 18 months.
Luckily, last year After-School All-Stars North Texas was able to hold an in-person luncheon featuring Dallas Cowboys running back Zeke Elliott chatting with WFAA Main Sports Anchor Joe Trahan.
Word has just arrived that the 2023 Rising Stars Luncheon will be taking place with two top names. Yes, Dirk will be onstage chatting with Dallas Mavs TV play-by-play commentator Mark Followill. And you just know that the conversation is going to be a blend of basketball insight, personal reflection and a healthy dose of humor.
Another highlight of the day will be the presentation of the Champion Award to fundraising veteran and longtime After-School All-Stars North Texas supporter Gina Betts .
According to Honorary Underwriting Co-Chairs Lisa Cooley and Ben Lange, “Over the years both Dirk and Gina have been well known for their unwavering dedication to North Texas youths. It will be a wonderful day to celebrate two great role models.”
The luncheon will take place Wednesday, May 10, at the Hall on Dragon.
Suggestion: When it comes to Dirk, the goodhearted 7′ tall German is a gentle giant whose conversations are G-rated and genuine. If you’re looking for an event where your youngsters would benefit from hearing from a role model, this is the one to take them out of school for a luncheon. Few recall how when he first joined the Mavs, he had a tough time and was even tagged “Irk Nowitzki.” But he overcame the challenges to lead the team to its first NBA championship in 2011 and just recently was elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame. Despite it all, his older sister, Silke Nowitzki, described him as a “confident but low-key character, unspoiled by money and fame.”
Funds raised from the luncheon will support After-School All-Stars North Texas’ mission “to provide programs and transformative opportunities that help students develop the skills, knowledge, and habits needed to succeed in life, school, and their future career.”
Tickets are available here and seats are limited, so hop to it.
* Graphic courtesy of After-School All-Stars North Texas