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SALT LAKE CITY — The only things brighter than the new, shiny maple-colored floors in the YWCA Utah sports court Tuesday were the smiles of the program's children as they haphazardly dribbled basketballs across the gym.
Their laughter mixed with the sound of pounding feet as the Utah Jazz Youth program coaches and staff led the group in exercises. The basketball clinic was held after the unveiling of an updated sports court and new mural at the YWCA Utah gym on Tuesday.
The nonprofit's building at 322 E. 300 South is over 100 years old, and its age was reflected in the gym.
"We are standing in a gym where generations of kids have lived and learned throughout the years," said Liz Owens, CEO of YWCA Utah.
Up until several months ago, the walls were well-worn with play, the paint peeling and cracked. The floors, basketball backboard and equipment also showed signs of wear.
But now, through a partnership with the Utah Jazz and American First Credit Union, the space has received a much need upgrade. It comes through an NBA leaguewide initiative in celebration of the NBA's 75th anniversary season, asking every NBA team to create a legacy space in their community, ranging from technology rooms to play spaces.
Along with the upgraded space came a $5,000 donation from America First Credit Union to help with new equipment.
"I am so thrilled that we have been able to bring the rest of the space to match the love and the glory of the mural and the people who use this space. Spaces matter, our environments matter," Owens said. "It's particularly important in this space because this is one of those spaces at YWCA Utah where kids who are experiencing family crisis, homelessness and transition, who are experiencing trauma, can come and play and laugh and learn and know that they deserve the various spaces to do so."
Chris Barney, chief revenue officer for the Utah Jazz, said he hoped the space would serve as an inspiration.
"It really is an honor to be here and to see our logo painting here," said Barney. "We really feel like our platform gives us the opportunity to impact people's lives and hopefully give somebody something to reach for — and especially in a place like this — where people come to find a refuge and ultimately better their lives."
