A Dream Come True ... Young Area Hoopsters Take the Court at Staples Center.

City Desks/News Editors

LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 25, 2002

Today, 20 children from the Ritchie Valens Recreation Center Youth Basketball Program in Pacoima experienced Staples Center from the same vantage point of the Los Angeles Clippers. The youngsters, ages 10-14, hooped it up on the same floor as the NBA pros.

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) and members of Los Angeles City Council President Alex Padilla's Office joined the Los Angeles Clippers to host these youngsters for an exclusive basketball clinic at Staples Center.

"The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power takes great pride in providing these types of events to the community," said David Wiggs, LADWP general manager. "We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Clippers organization to sponsor additional clinics throughout the year."

Clippers coaches and players gave first-hand instruction on shooting, dribbling and passing a basketball. Following the clinic, the young basketball players were given tickets to enjoy the Clippers game against the San Antonio Spurs in a Clippers suite. Participants were also provided with dinner and free t-shirts.

"This clinic provided by LADWP and the Clippers is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for these enthusiastic young sports fans," said Padilla. "The kids learned fundamental basketball skills from Clippers players and coaches and left Staples Center with some great memories they will never forget."

The event is one of many the LADWP sponsors to demonstrate its commitment to the community and the children of Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power serves more than 3.8 million people in Los Angeles and was established 100 years ago to provide water and electric needs to the city's businesses and residents. The LADWP is a recognized local and national leader in sponsoring programs to enhance the success of the youth of Los Angeles.