With the start of the new NBA season less than a week away, excitement is building around the Philadelphia 76ers and one of their biggest offseason additions, Jaylen Brown.
Basketball is a major part of Brown's world, but on Wednesday, he stepped away from the court and into the community.
He invited Action News anchor Sharrie Williams along for an exclusive look as he surprised students at three Philadelphia high schools: Imhotep Institute Charter High School, Academy at Palumbo and Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts.
Students erupted with excitement as Brown arrived at each campus.
"Our kids see the fame, and they see the money that your job can bring you. But what do you want them to know about the mindset of discipline and education?" asked Williams.
"Just the responsibility to like the community. Like we are all responsible for each other, like we all are contributing equally to society, and that no matter how big your platform is or may get, you have a responsibility to your community," said Brown.
During his visits, Brown encouraged students to believe in themselves, work hard and continue pursuing their education.
The teenagers were rewarded for their academic work, with the NBA champion presenting signed jerseys to deserving students and taking time to play one-on-one with some of the young ballers. He also gave away highly sought-after tickets to Sixers games.
Browns teammates Justin Edwards, Adem Bona and Tacko Fall came along and added to the excitement
"This mission you have to give back, to pour into other people, where does that come from for you?" asked Williams.
"I would say my grandma, my grandmother. She was very rooted in education, and she was always very rooted in the community as well. And she kind of taught all of her grandkids and her kids that, you know, you got to contribute to your community, and be a solution to the problems that you see around you that are complaining about them.
Brown says showing up for young people lets them know that they are seen.
"I think it's very important to be able to have people who look like you be in proximity. Just the community itself, you know, just trying to be using my platform in a positive way. You know, I know that sports in our society and in our community are big. So being able to use that to steer kids in the right direction is important.
Known for his community involvement throughout his NBA career, Brown said he plans to continue similar outreach efforts in Philadelphia.
In addition to sharing words of encouragement, Brown handed out signed jerseys and tickets to upcoming Sixers games.