HAWKS AND MICROSOFT ANNOUNCE ‘CODED DUNK CHALLENGE’

This week the Atlanta Hawks and Microsoft announced the launch of the Coded Dunk Challenge, an innovative coding competition for youth to expand their knowledge of technology, ignite an interest in computer science and introduce them to STEM-focused career paths. The organizations teamed up with Fair Chance Learning, a company that curates best-in-class educational programs to elevate students’ learning, to provide students ages 11 through 18 an opportunity to create unique on-screen basketball dunks through the use of code. Youth from the state of Georgia are encouraged to participate in the competition. Entries will be accepted through Friday, March 3.

“We are thrilled to partner with Microsoft and engage our local youth in this interactive and educational event which will help drive engagement and interest in technology,” said Hawks’ Vice President of Community Impact and Basketball Programs Jon Babul.

On Thursday at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Center and Aquatic Center, the Hawks and Microsoft tipped off the challenge in collaboration with Fair Chance Learning to provide more than 40 middle school students an opportunity to code and create Harry the Hawk basketball dunks.

In addition, the students participated in a special photo opportunity with Clint Capela and Harry the Hawk, watched Harry perform dunks in real time, were given refreshments and received gift bags that included a Hawks branded T-shirt and co-branded Microsoft and Hawks headband.

To enter the Atlanta Hawks and Microsoft Coded Dunk Challenge, applicants must be a legal resident of Georgia, be between the ages of 11 and 18 and must obtain permission from a parent or legal guardian prior to entering the contest. Additional information about how to enter and create a dunk code can be found at Hawks.com/code.

To learn more about the Hawks’ work in the community, visit Hawks.com/community.