NBA Star Honors North Babylon Principal

Danny Green plays for the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA but the basketball star returned to his native North Babylon on Sept. 12 to surprise Kathleen Harnett, principal of Robert Moses Middle School, and her students during a ceremony on the school field.

According to a statement released by the school, Green wanted to thank Principal Harnett for her support of Team Green, a basketball camp he runs.

“It was really surprising and very touching,” said Principal Harnett in the statement. “It was an example of what family means to Danny – and I am part of his North Babylon family. He takes nothing for granted. He is such an inspiration to our students, and it was a great way to start the school year.”

Green and his father, who is also named Danny, presented Principal Harnett with a plaque. He also gave her a framed photo of himself with Lebron James of the Miami Heat from the 2013 NBA finals.

Not one to miss an opportunity, Principal Harnett used the moment to teach a lesson to her students

“Danny is here as an inspiration to each and every one of you,” she said after the presentation. “He had a dream and worked 24 hours a day, seven days a week to achieve that dream. Not too long ago, Danny was where you are right now. It doesn’t matter what your dream is – set a goal, work hard and, like Danny did, don’t let anything get in your way.”