Hawks and Microsoft Announce Second Annual ‘Coded Dunk Challenge’

On yesterday the Atlanta Hawks and Microsoft, in collaboration with Fair Chance Learning, tip-off the second annual Coded Dunk Challenge at the YMCA Metro Atlanta, Youth & Teen Development Center. The event provided more than 50 middle school students an opportunity to digitally design and create their own version of Harry the Hawk dunking as part of the online Coded Dunk Challenge.

The Microsoft Coded Dunk Challenge is an innovative coding competition designed to enhance youth’s knowledge of technology, spark their interest in computer science, and introduce them to rewarding career paths and opportunities in STEM fields.

At the conclusion of the Challenge, the top three finalists would be selected to attend the Hawks’ home game on March 30 and compete with their coded dunks displayed on the center hung at State Farm Arena. The lucky winner will be announced during the game and will have the opportunity to see their dunk performed live on the court.

“We are excited to collaborate with Microsoft and involve local youth in this interactive and educational event, with the goal of stimulating their interest and participation in the field of technology,” said Hawks’ Vice President of Community Impact and Basketball Programs Jon Babul.

Last year’s online Coded Dunk Challenge saw around 100 participants from schools across the Metro Atlanta area.

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. For more information about how to enter and create a dunk code, visit Hawks.com/code.