What Milt and Shalaun will accomplish through the work of Emerald Gems Foundation‎ truly represents what they are about and the mark they want to leave on the lives of youth in the USVI. Milt was the captain and leader of the first Kansas team I coached, and truly embodied all the qualities needed to be a successful leader of people. He showed compassion and concern for his teammates both on and off the court, so I am not surprised that he continues to exhibit this kind of concern for others through the work of the Emerald Gems Foundation. Milt will never forget his homeland, and it doesn’t surprise me one bit that he is looking to give back to the USVI in this way. He was blessed as a youth with some great mentors who helped him and he wants to do the same.  The Emerald Gems Foundation, through the leadership of Milt and Shalaun, will undoubtedly succeed and provide positive experiences for the youths of the USVI for many years to come.

My first recruit, Milt Newton, now Minnesota Timberwolves GM, is starting Emerald Gems Foundation, a charitable foundation to build basketball in his native country. You look at what the players you coached are doing to give back and nothing makes you prouder. What Milt is doing is a big deal.