The National Basketball Association’s (NBA’s) Memphis Grizzlies recently honored Michael Wynn, a buyer in Baptist’s supply chain department, during halftime of a regular season game.
Michael earned the acclaim for directing New Bethel Church’s athletic ministries from 2014-2018. During his tenure, he implemented the Junior Grizzlies program, which teaches skill development through practices and games. Participants receive Grizzlies-branded uniforms and basketballs, as well as a certificate of achievement signed by a Memphis Grizzlies player.
In addition, participants play a short game during halftime at a Grizzlies game, high-five Grizzlies players as they leave the court, or stand with players during the National Anthem.
“All of the experiences were very exciting for the players and their families,” said Michael. “But I really felt honored when I was able to coach my players during the halftime games on the Memphis Grizzlies court.”
The Junior Grizzlies program gave Michael the opportunity to practice his ministry through sports.
“While we were teaching the fundamentals of basketball and introducing kids to the game, we were doing so in a Christ-centered environment,” said Michael. “We used sports as the tool to bring kids into church.”
Michael coached 4-13-year-old boys and girls, and as many as 115 players participated.
