Tari Eason Foundation Steps Up Big to Support P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy Jamaica After Hurricane Melissa

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy Jamaica faced one of the most difficult moments in its history. The storm devastated the academy’s training facilities, dormitories, and the homes of many players and their families, threatening the continuity of a program that has become a lifeline for youth basketball development in Jamaica.

In this critical moment, the Tari Eason Foundation stepped up in a powerful and meaningful way.

Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason, a longtime supporter of youth basketball in Jamaica, launched a fundraising campaign to help P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy rebuild and continue its mission. More than lending his name, Tari made his presence felt immediately—both publicly and personally.

Tari personally donated thousands of dollars to the rebuilding effort and actively led online campaigns to solicit donations from his global network of supporters, fans, and fellow basketball professionals. His commitment sent a clear message: this cause matters.

The campaign officially kicked off with an Instagram Live conversation featuring Tari,

P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy Director Wayne Dawkins, and several academy athletes. During the live session, viewers heard firsthand how the hurricane impacted the academy and its families, while also witnessing the resilience and determination of the young players who refuse to let the setback define their future.

To further amplify the message, Tari conducted a special interview with Nick Richards of the Phoenix Suns, the only active Jamaican-born NBA player. The conversation highlighted Jamaica’s deep and growing connection to the game of basketball and reinforced the importance of investing in grassroots development on the island. The interview served as both inspiration and a reminder that global success can grow from local opportunity.

Throughout the campaign, Tari expressed his strong desire to see the youth of P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy Jamaica continue to train, compete, and travel—especially as Jamaica’s only AAU basketball program. For many of these athletes, the academy represents their pathway to education, international exposure, and the pursuit of dreams that once felt out of reach.

“Tari didn’t just support from afar—he stood with us,” said Director Wayne Dawkins. “His leadership, generosity, and willingness to use his platform made a real difference for our players and families during a very difficult time.”

Thanks to the efforts of the Tari Eason Foundation and the broader basketball community, P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy Jamaica is taking meaningful steps toward rebuilding—not just structures, but hope, stability, and opportunity.

This moment stands as a powerful example of how basketball can unite communities, and how true leadership goes beyond the court.