MSG’s Garden of Dreams Foundation present three high school seniors with $60,000 scholarships at Knicks, Rangers games

Brooklyn native Levi Butler received his scholarship from Knicks guard Jalen Brunson before tip-off of Sunday’s game against the Charlotte Hornets. After the game concluded, Butler reunited with Brunson on the court to receive a signed jersey, as the post-game Knickerbocker’s Assist of the game.

Butler was introduced to the Garden of Dreams Foundation at six years old when his younger brother was diagnosed with cancer. His family attended home games regularly and went on shopping trips with the team. 

Unfortunately, his brother lost his battle with cancer, teaching Butler how to transform pain into action. He plans to use his education to uplift his community as a member of the NYU Langone Health and Sunrise Day Camp. 

Wynter Gray of the Bronx received the Willis Reed Garden of Dreams Inspire Scholarship, which is annually awarded to a deserving high school senior who embodies the spirit, leadership and work ethic of the all-time great big man. The scholarship will allow Gray to attend an Historically Black College or University (HBCU) of her choice without facing a financial burden. Gray received the scholarship from Reed’s wife, Gale Reed, Knicks legends Walt Clyde Frazier and Bill Bradley, and NYS Assembly Member Landon Davi during Friday night’s game against the Toronto Raptors.

Jack Pelzar, a lifelong Rangers fan, received the scholarship from team captain J.T. Miller before the start of a home game. He plans to study medicine or biomedical research after being diagnosed with epilepsy at a young age. Multiple brain surgeries and hospital visits were part of his treatment. He plans to use his education to help others overcome their challenges.