OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA: Zendaya decided to visit her hometown in Oakland along with Tom Holland to cheer the students. The pair also showed their basketball skills during their time in the city on Friday, August 25.
The Hoopbus, a non-profit basketball organization shared on its Instagram page the actors’ picture with basketball player Elvin Rodriquez. The ‘Hustle’ star was cheered on by students as she assisted a shot by throwing a basketball in the air. In the clip, Rodriguez then caught it and threw into the net.
What does Hoopbus do?
“@zendaya with the Lob !, “ Rodriguez wrote in the caption. “ZENDAYA deserves a TEN-DAYA ,” the Hoopbus added.
The Hoopbus uses its 40ft yellow school bus with hoops on it to bring basketball to the community through its LA arm.
What did Zendaya say in her speech to the students?
Zendaya gave a short speech to the students during her visit. It was recorded and posted online by a local basketball coach. Her boyfriend Holland stood close by. “I just came to say hi to all of you and see your beautiful faces — and let’s have a great time playing basketball,” the actress said as per People.
“Well, I’m not going to play basketball, because I haven’t played basketball since I was young. We’re not gonna do that because I might twist an ankle,” Zendaya joked.
"Today we have a few special guests come by to say (what) up to the kids and get some shots on the @thehoopbus. S/o @project_backboard @kizzithompson and @adiamillett and everyone involved in such a amazing project," the coach posted.
He captioned, @zendaya & @tomholland2013 really had the kids so happy it was really incredible to see!! #GivingBackToTheCommunity #TownBiz #Oakland.”
Earlier, Zendaya talked about balancing her private life amid public spotlight. “Parts of my life, I accept, are going to be public,” Zendaya told Elle “I can’t not be a person and live my life and love the person I love," referring to Holland."
"But also, I do have control over what I choose to share. It’s about protecting the peace and letting things be your own but also not being afraid to exist. You can’t hide. That’s not fun either. I am navigating it more than ever now," she added.Z
endaya, 26, will next feature in 'Challengers,' which is a romantic-sport movie from maker Luca Guadagnino.
