Grow the Game was founded on the belief that student managers are the backbone of college basketball programs. While much of their work gets done behind the scenes, and often for little or no pay, managers play a crucial role in team success. One of our co-founders, Ashton Hopp, a former Kansas Men’s Basketball student manager from 2019-2021, knows firsthand the impact Kansas has on young men and women. 

Hopp says “At Kansas, student managers are seen as more than just student workers. They are nurtured and invested in as future leaders—people who need care, mentorship, and development. The program pours into its managers, knowing that these individuals strive to make an impact both on and off the court.”

Jayson Mburu, a student from Nairobi, Kenya, was set to begin his junior year at the University of Kansas. Coming to college in America was a dream come true for him, and being the first-ever international student manager for Kansas Men’s Basketball allowed him to connect with the game he loves while building a community that he now considers family. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen financial circumstances back home, Jayson could not enroll in classes this fall. As a result, he had to step away from his role as a student manager—an experience that has been life-changing for him.

Grow the Game in collaboration with the initiative started by Kansas Men’s Basketball Head Student Manager Andrew Korta, is proud to drive a transformative fundraising campaign supporting Kansas Men’s Basketball student manager Jayson Mburu. Together, we aim to raise the $35,000 needed to pay for his tuition, allowing him to re-enroll as a full-time student, reinstate his position as a manager, and graduate a proud Jayhawk.

Click the “donate” button below to contribute to Jayson’s tuition fund. Please contact Ashton Hopp at Ashtonhopp@gtghoops.com to learn more about donating via check. Your donation is fully tax-deductible through Grow the Game’s 501(c)(3) non-profit status. 

Thank you so much for your support.