IL HR0962

Illinois House of Representatives congratulates Simeon Career Academy boys basketball team (the Wolverines) on their historic visit to Senegal, the first group of young Black men to travel to that part of Africa from the school.

Trip was organized by Simeon alumnus Tim Flowers (future head coach), with sponsorship from NBA player Derrick Rose and support from assistant coaches Joshua Davis and Jaleni Neely.

Delegation included 14 team members, four coaches/organizers, chaperones, and NBA All-Stars Joakim Noah and Luol Deng; spent six days experiencing Senegalese culture, visiting museums, landmarks, NBA Academy Africa, and Goree Island.

Visit to Goree Island provided educational experience regarding the island's historical role in the Atlantic slave trade.

Coach Flowers plans to make the Senegal trip an annual event for the team.