Go Team: Basketball Players Welcome a Very Special Teammate

Photo: Head Coach Ken Parham (left) with Gigi Veteri and Assistant Coaches Dana Carney, Rob Isme, and Bryant Lassiter.

The NYIT women’s basketball team added a new member to their roster: Giovanna “Gigi” Veteri, who was welcomed at a special Draft Day press conference on November 9. The day was made possible with the help of Team IMPACT, a Boston-based nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for children facing chronic illnesses.

Veteri was diagnosed with epilepsy at the age four, but the 14-year-old isn’t letting that stop her from living out her dreams, or having fun. “This very exceptional young lady is going to be a very important part of our team,” said Head Coach Ken Parham.

Gigi Veteri with her new NYIT teammates.

Family and friends, student-athletes, coaches of the women’s basketball team, and faculty members joined Veteri as she signed her National Letter of Intent. She was also given her own personal locker, NYIT backpack, practice suit, and travel gear.

“For this upcoming season, we hope that Gigi can join us at as many practices and games as she can. My team is very excited to get this season started and can’t wait for her to be a part of it,” said Parham

Watch the Draft Day press conference and Veteri practice with the team.