When Ethan joined the University of Tampa basketball team through Team IMPACT in June of 2023, he didn’t just become a fan on the sidelines—he became part of the team. And from the very beginning, De’Andre Harvey was right there beside him.
Ethan lives with multiple diagnoses including autism and cerebral palsy. Social connections can be hard to come by, but the opportunity to build a real, meaningful relationship around something he loves was life-changing. “He doesn’t warm up to many people,” his family shared. “But by the second year, we saw him grow in those relationships and truly look forward to every moment. That was priceless.”
De’Andre didn’t just treat Ethan with kindness—he treated him like an equal. “He was always so genuine, caring, patient, and kind,” Ethan’s parents, Andrea and David, said. “He didn’t treat Ethan like he was different. When Ethan was around him, he laughed and joked. He genuinely enjoyed their time together.”
From the start, De’Andre made sure Ethan felt included. He showed up for everything, from basketball games to community events to one-on-one hangouts. One unforgettable moment came at the Incredible Games, a local version of the Special Olympics, where De’Andre played, danced, and cheered alongside Ethan and his friends. “He didn’t just attend—he engaged. He made every kid there feel important,” Andrea and David recalled. “Ethan couldn’t stop talking about it.”
De’Andre went above and beyond every chance he got. When Team IMPACT opened nominations for Teammate of the Year, Ethan and his family didn’t hesitate—De’Andre was their guy.
Over time, Ethan’s confidence soared. He told his friends he was on the team and even began referring to the University of Tampa as “his school.” His social skills stretched in ways that are often difficult for him, and each experience brought him one step closer to his personal goals.
“Being surrounded by mentors like De’Andre was incredibly important,” Ethan’s parents shared. “It gave Ethan more social opportunities, but also something to look forward to—something built around joy.”
For Ethan and his family, the impact is lasting. What started as a connection through sports became a source of confidence, laughter, and belonging. “We can’t thank De’Andre enough for what he’s done. He’s made a difference in Ethan’s life—and in ours.”
Thanks to De’Andre Harvey and the University of Tampa Men’s Basketball team, Ethan doesn’t just feel included. He feels proud. He feels part of something bigger, and he knows he belongs.
