Christian Spencer
Brooklyn Nets forward Ziaire Williams has a big heart for athletes with different abilities, which led him to train the New York Wildcats ahead of the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games.
Partnering with UnitedHealthcare, Williams spent the evening running drills with the Wildcats on the court alongside Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso and Junior Harewood, CEO of UnitedHealthcare of New York, at the Brooklyn Basketball Training Center.
“I’m at the Special Olympics training, partnered with my foundation and the Brooklyn Nets,” Williams told The Brooklyn Downtown Star. “We’re out here shooting hoops with the New York Wildcats. They have a big game in Minneapolis, and hopefully, we get that gold. I’m just having fun—making shots, dribbling, and enjoying the moment. I’m blessed to be part of it.”
Williams’ foundation, Ziaire Zealous World Inc., focuses on inspiring youth, providing resources for underprivileged kids, and creating opportunities for them to engage in sports and community programs.
The 6-foot-8 2020 McDonald’s All-American (2020) does not only stand for Brooklyn basketball but has lived the experience personally through his uncle, who has autism.
“People often feel like individuals with autism are less than—but they’re more than capable. I try to show my love and support. Shout out to my uncle Nay—he’s well with autism and inspires me every day. You can do anything if you put your mind to it,” Williams added.
Also joining them was Renee Snyder, President of Development, Special Olympics New York, who will be accompanying the Wildcats at the 2026 USA Games in Minneapolis, saying, “We have 82 athletes who will be attending the games, and we’re really excited about that. Healthcare is not only a partner here in New York—it’s a global partner for the USA Games. And we couldn’t do this without partners like them, because we never charge our athletes for anything.”
The evening captured the synergy between professional athletes, community leaders, and the Special Olympics, demonstrating the importance of inclusion, mentorship, and hands-on support for these young athletes.
“Our mission is to help people live healthier lives, and there’s no better way to live that mission than by being part of an event like this,” Harewood said. “It’s incredibly important for organizations like ours to sponsor events like this—to make sure we’re advancing health equity for everyone.”
Reynoso could agree with Harewood. In fact, he joined in on the fun, playing alongside the Wildcats and Williams—even in a solid dark gray/charcoal two-piece suit.
“What’s happened to me is why I think this is important. It’s about building community. It’s about showing up for each other. It’s about making sure we teach people sportsmanship, kindness, and how to work together—so that we can uplift each other. Especially here in New York, I want to say I’m thankful for that,” Reynoso said.
From 6 to 7 p.m., the training center, staffed by a dozen or so Nets and UnitedHealthcare team members, buzzed with activity as some played while others cheered.
The event concluded with a pizza party, generously provided by La Pizza, celebrating the athletes’ efforts and community spirit.
