More Than a Team: How Maker Magic Builds Better Players and People
Basketball is a major part of New York City culture. It brings people together and, for many, becomes more than just a game. At UA Maker, that passion often centers around the school’s basketball team, Maker Magic.
Maker Magic has been part of the school community since its early years and serves as an alternative team for students who are new to basketball or do not play for Murry Bergtraum. Over time, the team has built a reputation for helping students improve not only their basketball skills, but also their physical health, mindset, and academic performance.
Many students join Maker Magic to improve their skills on the court.
“They actually help you train a lot and focus on the skills you need to improve, like shooting, playmaking, and layups,” said Jaylen Kelley, a 10th grader who has played in several games. “The coaches take their time and help you figure things out.”
However, the program goes beyond skill development. Coaches also focus on students who may not yet be physically prepared for the demands of the sport.
“A lot of these young men can’t run or even walk up steps without getting tired,” said Marquis Delfish, a member of the Community Support Team, head coach of Maker Magic, and a former player from the Class of 2018. “We get them in shape mentally, and it builds discipline.”
Basketball can be a challenging sport, but it also builds character. For the coaches, the goal is not just improvement on the court, but growth off the court as well.
“As a team, we’re not only worried about getting better at basketball, but becoming better young men overall,” Delfish explained.
Academics are also a priority for the team, and players are expected to show effort in the classroom.
“One of my coaches, Daniel, is real stern on grades,” said Delfish. “If you're failing a class, you have to go early in the morning to do homework or stay after school to complete assignments. We're big on grades. Some students may be struggling, but if you're showing improvement in class, you still get a chance to play.”
Daniel Jerome, the Restorative Justice Coordinator at UA Maker and assistant coach of Maker Magic, emphasized that accountability goes beyond external expectations. “A lot of systems hold students accountable to others,” he said. “But we want them to be accountable to themselves and their own goals.”
Students also see the impact of Maker Magic beyond the court.
“In Maker Magic, we’re strictly student-athletes,” said Robert Johnson, a 10th grader. “If our grades aren’t where they should be, we spend time working with teachers before continuing practice.”
For many players, the program provides both structure and support.
“To us, basketball is a vehicle,” Jerome explained. “It could be any sport, but it’s about helping young people become better individuals and succeed academically.”