WASHINGTON — The crowd was loud and the education was fun. From learning about the technology behind how players' jerseys are made to the importance of the materials in their shoes.
“I didn’t realize how much like the way you play is affected by like the area you’re in,” says sixth grader Cora Smith from Washington Latin Public Charter School. “And how like science is like, affects so many things even in sports.”
Students got to see first-hand how important STEM education is when it comes to basketball. Throughout the game, lessons were broadcast on the big board during time-outs.
“We learned all about like different like, waves with light and stuff, and the lights moving and how to control that,” explains Vivian Barojas from Washington Latin Public Charter School.
There was even a special halftime show packed with fun science experiments.
“When you get to see stuff like this, like in real life, then it makes it a lot cooler” adds classmate Ella Rothwell.
And that’s exactly what the Mystics are hoping students take away from events like this.
“They can see that basketball is a learning opportunity,” explains Vice President of Marketing for the Washington Mystics, Dana Campbell. “You can both learn and have fun at the same time and a team like the Mystics and the WNBA are putting those things together.”
And on the court, the presence of these excited students was known.
“The energy was dope, they brought it, up until the end of the game they brought it,” Julie Vanloo, point guard for the Washington Mystics recalls.
Head Coach, Eric Thibault added, “It made it feel like a regular season game. I definitely lost my voice trying to talk over the kids at halftime.”
Off the court, dozens of local partners set up exhibits and experiences for students to take part in around the concourse.
“Partnering with organizations like the Mystics it allows us to excite the students, get them really into STEM careers, and interested in those careers as well,” says Mahwish Hamlani, the Vice Chair of STEM for Her.
And what a way to close out the preseason ahead of the home opener next Tuesday. And if you missed out on the fun, that’s ok, the DeMystifying STEM game is an annual tradition and you can always catch it next year.