More than 30 young adolescents in middle school occupied wooden seats within a gymnasium in Gagetown, a small village in New Brunswick situated approximately 60 kilometers away from Fredericton, the provincial capital. They convened to showcase their analyses of basketball statistics and delve into the realm of data science. Unbeknownst to them, NBA luminary Pascal Siakam made a surprise appearance, donning an “Education is Freedom” shirt, eager to engage with their insights on utilizing open data.
These students were participants in the Data Dunkers program initiated by Indiana Pacers forward Siakam, a collaborative effort between his PS43 Foundation and Dell Technologies. The program aims to educate students from Grade 5 to 12 on data analysis through the lens of basketball. Siakam’s presence, a tangible connection to professional basketball and a key figure in Canada’s memorable 2019 Toronto Raptors championship victory, left many of the youngsters awe-struck.
“It has become one of the most memorable days of my life,” exclaimed 11-year-old Acacia Mallery, an avid Toronto Raptors enthusiast, reflecting on her second day of Grade 6.
Later that day, Siakam was conferred an honorary degree by the University of New Brunswick, where his foundation has sponsored scholarships for students from his native Cameroon to pursue studies at the province’s largest university. UNB President and Vice-Chancellor Paul Mazerolle highlighted that honorary degrees acknowledge exceptional leadership and individuals making significant contributions, fitting Siakam’s profile perfectly.
Siakam, reflecting on his journey from Cameroon to the U.S. for education and basketball, expressed gratitude for the honorary degree, acknowledging the influence of his late father, who emphasized the importance of education in his life. Siakam revealed that his father’s passing in 2014 during his college years was a pivotal moment, leading him to play with a renewed purpose and dedication.
At an emotional encounter with the Gagetown students, Siakam shared insights into his personal challenges, particularly the loss of his father, emphasizing how it transformed his perspective and fueled his drive to honor his father’s memory. Subsequently, Siakam’s basketball career soared, culminating in his selection by the Toronto Raptors and the significant impact of winning the 2019 NBA championship.
Despite his relocation to Indiana, Siakam remains committed to his Canadian roots, exemplified by the establishment of the PS43 Foundation aimed at granting young individuals access to education, a cause close to his heart. Siakam’s transition to the Indiana Pacers in 2024 saw him lead the team to the Eastern Conference Finals and the NBA Finals in subsequent seasons, earning accolades along the way.
Siakam’s connection to Canada was further solidified through collaborations with institutions like the University of New Brunswick, facilitated by a meeting with former New Brunswick Premier Frank McKenna. The partnership resulted in the establishment of a tech-focused scholarship for Cameroonian students, underscoring Siakam’s commitment to giving back to his community and Canada.
Siakam’s visit to New Brunswick for the honorary degree ceremony and interaction with the Gagetown students marked his inaugural trip to the Maritime province, leaving him impressed by its tranquility. Reflecting on his own journey from Cameroon to the NBA, Siakam emphasized the transformative power of encounters with idols and mentors in shaping aspirations and fostering personal growth, a narrative he hopes to inspire in others.