12-05-2025
NBA champion Fred VanVleet returns to Rockford for gala event
ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — NBA Champion and Rockford native Fred VanVleet is returning to his hometown to headline the 3rd annual Diamonds Storytelling Gala in June.
This year's event will be held at Hard Rock Live on Thursday, June 12th.
The annual gala highlights individuals who grew up in the stateline who have gone on to reach the highest level of their industries.
'I'm honored to partner with Founders Commission to headline this year's DIAMONDS gala,' said VanVleet. 'My family and I are proud to help inspire the next generation of success stories, whether they're achieved on the court, in business or in the community.'
Roscoe native and ESPN SportsCenter anchor Nicole Briscoe will emcee the event, which will feature an on-stage conversation and Q&A session with VanVleet.
Proceeds from the night go to the Founders Commission, and they will donate a portion of this year's proceeds to the VanVleet Family Foundation, which helps youth through educational opportunities, athletics, and career development.
Last year, former Destiny's Child member and Rockford native Michelle Williams was the guest speaker. In 2022, former TOPGUN instructor, Rockford's own U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander Michael Andrews, gave the keynote address.
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