WICHITA, Kansas – Former East High athlete and current assistant coach for the Chicago Bulls is showing his support for Michael Kelley.
Adrian Griffin first heard about the incident at his old high school about a special needs athlete, Michael Kelley, not being allowed to earn the same varsity letter as the other school athletes.
“He wanted to provide his support to Michael and his teammates because he’s an alumni of East.” said Jolinda Kelley, Michael’s mom.
Griffin was bothered with the school’s decision and has decided to help the Kelley family out by donating an autographed jersey, basketball, and a Derek Rose bobble head.
Griffin said that the family will auction off the items to raise money so that they can buy uniforms for the special needs team.
Kelley expressed her gratitude to Griffin for his help and support.
“I can’t tell you in words how that makes me feel, that someone who doesn’t even know my son or these other students would step out and stand up for them like this.” said Kelley.

“Donating my jersey , a 2014-15 signed Chicago Bulls ball and Derek Rose bobble head to East High’s… https://t.co/ne3CLV6LDy
– Adrian Griffin (@NBACoachGriffin) March 28, 2015
We’ve received hundreds of emails asking how they can support Michael Kelley by sending in their letter or letter jacket. You can send items to the PO Box below:
Miracle League of Wichita Kansas ATTN: Michael Kelley PO Box 624 Andover, KS 67002FOLLOW THE TIMELINE OF THIS STORY:
- 4/05: Michael Kelley gets special treatment in San Antonio
- 4/02: Tri County League says special needs athletes will earn the same varsity letter
- 4/01: Rhode Island athlete collects varsity letters for Kansas boy with special needs
- 3/30: Mother of special needs athlete holds presser after USD 259 BOE meeting
- 3/30: USD 259 School Board hears from parents about varsity letters for special needs kids
- 3/30: Special needs student letter debate sparks social media uproar
- 3/29: USD 259 Superintendent lays out expectations for Mondays BOE meeting
- 3/29: USD 259 Superintendent talks about alternative sports recognition
- 3/29: East High principal responds to varsity letter controversy
- 3/28: Mom of special needs son fights for change in USD 259 district policy
- 3/28: Chicago Bulls assistant coach supports Michael Kelley
- 3/27: Debate continues over East High letter policy for special needs athletes
- 3/27: Schools reach out to special needs athlete
- 3/27: Local organization says inclusion vital to special needs kids
- 3/27: School district responds to student story
- 3/27: Students create petition for East High student to earn varsity letter
- 3/26: Mom says special needs son at East High told to remove his varsity letter