2025 Disability Awareness Basketball Game

Mar 20

Bona Vista’s Disability Awareness Basketball Game Brings Fun, Competition, and Community Support to Kokomo

The Bona Vista Disability Awareness Basketball Game took place yesterday, March 19, at Haworth Gym inside Kokomo High School, and it was an event to remember! With the Bona Vista All-Star team facing off against a group of local celebrities, plus entertainment, games, and more, the night was an absolute blast for both participants and spectators alike.

What Is the Disability Awareness Basketball Game?

Each year, Bona Vista and Developmental Services, Inc. (DSI) come together to host this special event in Kokomo, Indiana. The Disability Awareness Basketball Game is designed to bring the community together while raising awareness and funds for individuals with disabilities. It provides an exciting and inclusive atmosphere where local figures compete against the reigning champions—the Bona Vista All-Stars—a team made up of individuals who receive services from Bona Vista. The event highlights the abilities of those with disabilities while raising crucial funds to support the organization’s mission.

A Star-Studded Celebrity Lineup

As always, a lineup of “Kokomo celebrities” was invited to challenge the All-Stars. This year’s team featured some well-known faces, including:

Mayor Tyler Moore
John Peckinpaugh the head coach of the Kokomo High School Boys Basketball Team
Brian Pier
Misty Oliver a former member of the Kokomo High School Girls Basketball State Championship Team
Kelly Barker the assistant director of special programs of Kokomo School Corperation
Jonathan Rogers the sales manager at WWKI
Jordon Wiseman police officer with Kokomo Police Department
Jason Braden from the Kokomo Fire Department
Matt Bolinger from the Time Travelers band
Kelly Hopkins the facilitator with Kokomo CEO
Dana Neer the Chief Executive Director at United Way of Howard and Tipton County
EZ Zimmerman the deputy of the Howard County Sheriff’s Office
Drew Durham the trustee of the Center Township of Howard County
Drew Larison the CEO of The Kokomo Post and Larison Media

Adding to the fun, The Kokomo Post’s very own Bree Bragg emceed the event, keeping the energy high throughout the night.

A Night of Fun and Friendly Competition

The game tipped off following a special proclamation by Mayor Tyler Moore, who officially declared March 19 as Disability Awareness Day in Kokomo. After a performance of the national anthem from individuals with Bona Vista, the action got underway.

Both teams played their hearts out, with the score remaining tight throughout all four quarters. However, in the end, the Bona Vista All-Stars defended their title once again, securing another victory over the Celebrity Team.

More Than Just Basketball

The night wasn’t just about the game—it was packed with entertainment! Attendees enjoyed dance routines from Legacy Dance Academy, performances by the Kokomo BobKats Dance Team, and energetic cheers from the Bona Vista cheerleaders. Fans also had a chance to get in on the fun with interactive games like pop-a-shot and chuck-a-duck. Celebrity sports announcer Chris Lowry added to the excitement with lively commentary, along with some playful back-and-forth with the referees.

A Huge Fundraising Success

While the game and entertainment were highlights of the night, the real star was the incredible generosity of the community. At the end of the third quarter, it was announced that this year’s fundraiser brought in more than $21,000—all of which will go back to supporting Bona Vista’s mission. The crowd erupted in cheers, celebrating another successful year for this important event.

Check out these photos below from last night’s game and relive the fun!