Grand Rapids native Lacey James hasn't had an easy route to the NBA G League. After signing with the New York Knicks G League team in 2021, he was sidelined due to a concern about an enlarged heart. Sitting out his entire rookie season wasn't easy after all of the excitement.

"It was very tough for me to have to sit on the sidelines with something that I couldn't control," Lacey told the Blue Star students during Friday morning's assembly.

The Blue Star trait of the month is perseverance, something James knows far too well.

"I hope the students believe in themselves, I want them to believe in themselves," he added. "I want them to know that anything is possible, I'm a prime example coming from this area."

Throughout his time at Blue Star, James spoke during the assembly but also took time to sign autographs, take photos, and walk the track with students during their recess.

"This is why you do what you do and sacrifice everything," James said, "Just to see them smile and come up to you wanting a high five, that's what makes my day, this is why you do it."