You wouldn't expect lots of old people to be really into basketball, right? That doesn't seem like the typical demographic. But, as Utah Jazz owner Ryan Smith wants to show, there are certainly some passionate ones!
As reported by People, he has started a tradition with the Utah Jazz where every year he invites people in their 90s to come and watch. He was inspired by his grandmother's love of the game.
It's a really heartwarming scene. The grandparents are given custom jersies before being pampered. They, along with a chosen plus one, were wined and dined before seeing the Utah Jazz play. Some were even given courtside seats due to mobility needs.
Throughout the night, the fans were approached by players, broadcasters, and team figures alike. One Finnish guest even got to meet Finnish Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen.
Even the team's mascot, the Jazz Bear, was keen to meet them. It approached several elderly game-goers as the game went on.
"My grandparents are the reason I became a Jazz fan and the inspiration behind these amazing fans in their nineties," he explained to the outlet. "Sports connect people and help create amazing memories with loved ones."
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The Elderly Game-Goers Loved the Utah Jazz Experience
And it's safe to say that they absolutely loved the Utah Jazz experience!
For Venice Bitton, a soon-to-be 90-year-old, the experience was magical. She said the night represented a life-long bond with a team she's supported since they were first founded. She said that she's stayed loyal to the Jazz throughout their highs and lows. Bitton attended with her granddaughter.
When she was asked what she thought of the whole experience, she gave a pretty simple answer. "I think it's just a thrill of a lifetime."
But this isn't the first initiative the Utah Jazz has funded. Since Ryan Smith bought the team in 2020, he's really been trying to "make memorable fan experiences." They've really tried to have a proactive approach with their fans, constantly interacting on social media with them.
They've also funded things like a free jersey swap event. This allowed thousands of fans to swap their dated jersies with newer designs.
