THE UNDISCOVERED SHOWCASE
During an exciting weekend every April, hundreds of Chicago high school basketball players attend the Undiscovered Showcase to play in front of college coaches from around the country. This is their opportunity to go from an uncertain future to a fully-funded college scholarship. That reimagines life for entire families and generations—and this is what the cultural identity and community of Chicago basketball is truly all about.
Undiscovered Showcase Statistics to date:
600+ total scholarships accepted at the NCAA/NAIA/NJCAA level
Hundreds of college programs represented over the years by coaches and scouts
2023 yielded 46 scholarships worth $2.76 million in funds for college tuition for our Chicago youth.
April 13th, 2024 at Wendell Phillips Academy High School, high school seniors in the Chicagoland area who found themselves "unsigned," or without a commitment to a college basketball program, played in front of coaches and scouts with open scholarships to fill. The event, supported by donors and volunteers, was free for all eligible seniors.
With intention to further support our Chicago community, the jerseys were made by Black-owned local business SVI Sportswear.
Founded in 2009 by Edifye co-founder and board member Daniel Poneman, the Undiscovered Showcase has annually brought dozens of players life-changing college scholarships. These players go on to earn degrees from prestigious schools all over the country. Some go on to play professionally, but many return to Chicago after they graduate college to help rebuild the neighborhoods that raised them. Showcase participants have become influential coaches, trainers, teachers and community activists. We hope to integrate future showcase alum in our Team Edifye movement work!