Former Notre Dame basketball players giving backpacks to local kids

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind.—Two professional basketball players have returned to Notre Dame this summer to continue a mission they began in 2018.

Pat Connaughton and Jerian Grant, both former Notre Dame basketball players, have returned to campus this week to give out backpacks to local kids.

In 2018, the duo gave away more than 400 bags, binders, pencils and loose leaf paper—as well as the occasional autograph and picture—to young students.

“It’s something we want to continue to do because the community embraced us during all of those elite eight runs and to give back is important to us. It’s what instilled in us here at Notre Dame both on the basketball court and off the court,” Connaughton said.

The backpack giveaway will take place on Wednesday, July 17 at 12 p.m. at Gate 10 of the Joyce Center at Notre Dame. The event will go until 1:30 p.m. or while supplies last.