Knoxville – Make-A-Wish East Tennessee is excited to announce a new partnership with University of Tennessee basketball standout and former Greeneville Greene Devil, Ja’Kobi Gillespie.
With the support of sponsors, they are tipping off Swishes for Wishes, a campaign that connects the excitement of college basketball with the life-changing mission of granting wishes to children battling critical illnesses.
Through Swishes for Wishes, every point, three-pointer, or assist Ja’Kobi records during the 2025–2026 basketball season — including regular and postseason games — will generate donations to Make-A-Wish East Tennessee. Fans can get involved by pledging their own donation at swishesforwishes.org.
“Wishes are powerful.” said Gillespie. “They give kids hope and joy just when they need it. I was inspired by my grandmother, who is a volunteer. She recently helped grant a wish for Owen, a 3-year-old from Johnson City who battles a respiratory disorder. Owen loves Toy Story, so he wished for a movie-themed shopping spree and room makeover. The smiles from Owen and his parents were incredible. I want to make more wishes possible and I’m thrilled I can use my platform to make a difference for these kids.”
Last season at Maryland Gillespie recorded 180 field goals, including 87 three-pointers, and he had 174 assists. Through eleven games of the Vols’ 2025-2026 season, he has recorded 67 field goals, 30 three-pointers, and 59 assists. That sets the stage for an exciting and impactful season and postseason.
“Ja’Kobi represents everything this campaign is about – determination, leadership, and giving back,” said Garrett Wagley, President & CEO of Make-A-Wish East Tennessee. “Through his performance on the court and his heart off the court, he will help us deliver hope to critically ill children across Big Orange Country.”
Named Tennessee’s Mr. Basketball in 2022, Gillespie led Greeneville to back-to-back state championships in 2021 and 2022. He is known as a dynamic college basketball guard, recognized for his high-scoring and playmaking skills.
By partnering with Gillespie, Make-A-Wish East Tennessee is bringing together fans, corporations, and local communities to fund transformative wishes for children across the state. The Garza Law Firm is the campaign’s Tip Off Sponsor and has pledged $100 for every three-point shot Gillespie scores during the rest of the season and postseason.
“We’re excited to be a part of Swishes for Wishes,” said Marcos Garza, Owner and Attorney at Garza Law Firm. “As a lifelong member of this community, we believe in stepping up for our kids. Swishes for Wishes is about more than basketball, it’s about hope, teamwork, and making a real difference for children facing critical illnesses. We’re proud to tip off this campaign and challenge others to join us in supporting Make-A-Wish East Tennessee. Every three-pointer this season is a shot at a brighter future for a local child.”
Make-A-Wish East Tennessee grants wishes to children 2½ to 18 years old with critical conditions to provide hope, strength, and joy. Wishes are medicine and can help children face treatment with renewed commitment. Additionally, wishes give children, their parents, and others a chance to enjoy a special time together. Make-A-Wish East Tennessee grants approximately 100 wishes annually. Currently, 105 children are waiting for their wishes to be granted. Local wishes only come true with the support of local volunteers and donors.
All proceeds from Swishes for Wishes will here in East Tennessee to benefit local children
Fans can make a pledge and learn more at swishesforwishes.org.
Tennessee (@Vol_Hoops) star and former Greeneville standout Ja’Kobi Gillespie (@k0b1g) partnered with Make-A-Wish East Tennessee & Garza Law Firm for “Swishes for Wishes” campaign on Monday morning.
Hear Ja’Kobi speak about a wonderful new partnership at Monday’s presser. pic.twitter.com/JEsBknRinl
— GreeneSportsZone (@GSportsZone) December 22, 2025
Ja’Kobi Gillespie (@k0b1g) partnered with Make-A-Wish East Tennessee & The Garza Law Firm for “Swishes for Wishes” campaign.
Read more at https://t.co/771uyEOrH9. Link in bio.#TennesseeVolunteers #FirstHorizon #FYP #Sports #Basketball pic.twitter.com/iSvHB1uS0M
— GreeneSportsZone (@GSportsZone) December 23, 2025
