
Honoring a Legacy Empowering OUR Future
Creating generations of leaders both
on and off the court like
DownTown Freddie Brown
Creating generations of leaders both
on and off the court like
DownTown Freddie Brown
For The Brown Family, success isn't just about winning—it's about how you play the game.
Inspired by the legacy of Fred Brown, founder of Mr. B's Basketball Reading and Math Camp,
we're building a community where young people can thrive both on and off the court.
We're equipping the next generation with the tools to succeed through basketball training, academic support, and life skills development.
But more than that, we're reviving old-school values—accountability, respect, discipline, and integrity—because true success comes from character, not just talent.
Financial barriers should not limit talent and potential.
We offer scholarships to support athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs who demonstrate commitment, creativity, and leadership. Investing in our future empowers young people to pursue their passions and create lasting impact in their community.
Fred Brown believed in preparing young people for life beyond the game. Our mentorship program connects participants with positive role models who teach leadership, communication, and financial literacy, helping them build the skills to navigate life’s challenges and opportunities.
Our basketball training program focuses on developing fundamental skills, strategic thinking, and teamwork.
Led by experienced coaches, participants receive high-level instruction in shooting, defense, and game strategy wSphile learning the value of discipline and perseverance on and off the court.
We believe that success in life starts with success in the classroom. Our academic programs, which include homework support and literacy-focused workshops, are designed to build confidence and improve academic performance.
Empower Our Youth Through Athletics: Offer professional-level basketball training to develop skills, teamwork, and confidence.
Promote Academic Excellence: Provide tutoring and academic support to ensure every participant thrives in the classroom
Build Leadership and Character: Instill values of respect, accountability, and discipline to prepare youth for life beyond sports
Improve Economic Opportunity: Teach financial literacy and entrepreneurship skills to help participants create pathways to financial independence
Increase Black Homeownership and Stability: Offer mentorship and resources to help families build generational wealth through homeownership
Strengthen Literacy and Education: Emphasize reading and academic growth to equip participants with lifelong skills for success
Create a Stronger Community: Engage families, local leaders, and mentors to foster a sense of belonging and connection
Preserve Fred Brown’s Legacy: Keep his values and teachings alive through structured programs and community outreach
We aim to continue Fred Brown’s legacy by providing young people with the tools, guidance, and support they need to excel in life. We aim to create a space where kids learn the fundamentals of basketball and gain the confidence and skills to succeed academically and personally. Through mentorship, education, and athletic development, we strive to empower the next generation of leaders and strengthen the bonds within our community.
Just as Frederick Brown was more than a basketball star, he built more than a basketball camp. Mr. Brown cultivated a foundation of community, leadership, discipline, and love for others. He raised his children in an era when neighbors called about your daughter jaywalking. He sprung into action when his community faced tension and adversity. His lifestyle revolved around mentorship, showing by example that success isn’t just about talent—
it’s about character, hard work, and community.
Fred Brown was also an entrepreneur who didn't belive in making excuses, he believed in making a way. He understood that economic independence and financial literacy were just as important as athletic and academic success.
That belief is fundamental in
Grand Rapids, where systemic challenges persist.
While in his 20s, Fred Brown faced several economic and social barriers. As a person of color, he was not allowed to buy property or even eat in certain downtown Grand Rapids establishments.
In 2016, Forbes listed Grand Rapids as one of the worst places economically for Black people to live. And in 2025, MLive reported that the Black homeownership rate in Grand Rapids ranked among the worst among the 50 largest U.S. metros. These statistics reflect the ongoing barriers to economic opportunity, but we are determined to change that narrative.
Our programs combine elite basketball training with academic support and life skills coaching to equip young people with the tools they need to succeed—on and off the court. We focus on core values like respect, accountability, and teamwork because success in life isn’t just about winning games—
it’s about how you play it.
Reading is a vital part of our programming because literacy opens doors to opportunity. Strong reading skills empower young people to succeed academically, improve their communication, and build confidence. Just as Fred Brown emphasized fundamentals in basketball, we emphasize the fundamentals of education, knowing that success in life starts with a solid foundation in learning.
We are creating a true community where families, coaches, and mentors come together to uplift and inspire. By helping young people develop confidence through sports and academic excellence, we are building better athletes and future leaders and a stronger, more united community.
Be it in school or after-school programming,
Tell us about your goals and how we can build together.
Contact us today and we'll get the ball rolling...
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