Thank You Mariasa

A thank you letter to Marissa Coleman. Former WNBA All Star and Maryland University Women's Basketball Champion.

PRIMEGIRLSWOMEN'S BASKETBALLWNBABASKETBALL CULTURELA SPARKSNCAA WOMEN'S BASKETBALLMARISSA COLEMAN

Prime

6/8/20251 min read

Dear Marissa,

I just want to take a moment to thank you, sincerely and from the heart

You were the very first person who truly saw what I was building with girls basketball. You didn’t just see it, you believed in it. In me. And that belief turned into action when you partnered with me and helped make us the very first Under Armour sponsored girls team, long before there was even a circuit.

That kind of support means more than words can fully capture. You backed the vision before it was fully visible to others, and that’s something I’ll never forget. Your trust, your partnership, and your leadership helped lay the foundation for everything that’s come after. You showed up physically and as a mentor.

Thank you for being a pioneer, a supporter, and a true game, changer. I’m forever grateful.

With appreciation and respect,

Lonnie Harrell

At ConKrete Playground, we build moments that live forever. From the court to the crowd, we tell raw stories, celebrate the grind, and connect culture through the heartbeat of those who grew the game.

The Playground

The scout

Southeast’s Finest Makes Her Mark 💫Liatu King has officially signed a hardship deal with the Los Angeles Sparks, becoming the latest hooper from Southeast D.C. to touch the league! 🙌🏽 Born and raised in the heart of the city, a proud product of Johnson Jr. Middle School, Liatu is the first girl I ever coached—and now she’s a pro.

From tough courts in Congress Heights to this WNBA moment, her journey is everything Conkrete Playground stands for: grit, growth, and greatness. 💪🏽 She joins UCONN Assistant Coach Jamelle Elliott as another legend from our same neighborhood and school, proving that Southeast doesn't just produce talent—we produce greatness.

Read More

In this week’s edition of The Scout, Conkrete Playground breaks down the game of NBA All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, one of the most instinctive and refined guards in basketball.