INDIANAPOLIS — The Pacers Foundation recently announced Huntington eighth-grade student Ananiel Thamsanqa will travel to New York City to compete in the 2026 NBA Math Hoops Global Championship, taking place June 22-25.
Watch the announcement here.
Ananiel, a member of the Boys & Girls Club of Huntington County, was selected for a standout season in the NBA Math Hoops program and was recently recognized during an Indiana Fever game at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Developed by Learn Fresh, NBA Math Hoops leverages the game of basketball and the NBA and WNBA brands to build fundamental math skills through a physical and digital basketball-themed board game, a curriculum, and a community program experience.
“Ananiel’s dedication, sportsmanship, and commitment to learning embody what NBA Math Hoops is all about,” said Erin Bess, executive director of the Pacers Foundation. “We’re proud to see him represent the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever on a global stage and inspire students across our state through the power of STEM and sport.”
This year marked both Ananiel’s first season participating and the inaugural year of NBA Math Hoops at his club. To qualify for the nomination, Ananiel demonstrated excellence both on and off the board, earning All-Star Student status for outstanding sportsmanship, completing at least 25 games and finishing 10 curriculum lessons during the 2025-26 season.
The Boys & Girls Club of Huntington County was named the regional winner at the 2026 Pacers Foundation NBA Math Hoops Regionals presented by the Lilly Foundation in March. Their coach, Alan Smith, was recognized as an NBA Math Hoops Outstanding Educator for the 2026 season. Smith’s leadership helped guide both Ananiel and his local Boys & Girls Club through a successful first year in the program.
“We are incredibly proud of Ananiel for earning the opportunity to represent the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever at the 2026 NBA Math Hoops Global Championship,” said Boys & Girls Club of Huntington County CEO Ashley Allen. “Opportunities like NBA Math Hoops show young people that academics, critical thinking and teamwork can open doors to incredible experiences and we are excited to see Ananiel represent our Club on a global stage.”
Designed for students in grades 4-8, NBA Math Hoops is a free program that develops students’ algebra readiness prior to entering high school, while strengthening important skills, including self-regulation and executive function. The Global Championship brings together top-performing students from across the country and beyond for a multi-day experience focused on STEM learning, cultural exchange and competition.
Schools and youth-serving nonprofit organizations can receive free resources to offer the program in classrooms and after-school programs by reaching out to foundation@pacers.com. Fans can learn more at PacersFoundation.org.
