(Berea, S.C.) — Berea Elementary in South Carolina has been selected as a 2025 national finalist in the 3rd annual elementary school creativity contest presented by Jersey Mike’s Subs and the Harlem Globetrotters. Known as the Court of Creativity, the nationwide competition invites elementary students to showcase their talents through basketball-themed projects inspired by the world-famous Globetrotters.
As one of 10 finalists selected by a panel of judges, Berea Elementary will receive a $1,000 cash prize from Jersey Mike’s. One grand prize-winning school will also be selected to receive a catered lunch from Jersey Mike’s in addition to a visit from the Harlem Globetrotters before the end of the 2024–25 school year.
At Berea, Mrs. Culpepper’s 4th-grade class led a science experiment on force and energy, discovering how a basketball’s bounce height changes depending on the surface. Then, in PE class, students took the court in custom jerseys and shoes they designed to express their cultures, personalities, and passions—capping it off with freestyle basketball performances that brought their creativity to life. To view the school’s submission, click HERE.
This year’s Top 10 Finalists showcased an extraordinary blend of creativity and education, ranging from basketball-themed STEM experiments and custom jersey designs to original videos, trick shots, and full-scale classroom productions. Students nationwide applied their creativity in subjects like math and science principles, explored themes like perseverance and teamwork, and brought characters like school mascots to life.
“Each year, the creativity and school pride in these projects is amazing to witness,” said Rich Hope, Chief Marketing Officer at Jersey Mike’s Franchise Systems, LLC. “The Court of Creativity is about more than just basketball—it’s about inspiring students to express themselves and work together. Congratulations to all the schools that participated.”
The contest was open to public, private, and vocational elementary schools with grades K–5 across the United States. It continues to serve as a platform for promoting creativity, healthy lifestyles, and community engagement among young students.
