By Peda E.
Growing up in Boston, Kevin Nunez wasn’t just another kid on the block. He was the embodiment of the “Good in Every Hood” spirit that Mathmatik Athletics celebrates. As a pro athlete who navigated the complex landscapes of our city’s neighborhoods, Kevin knows firsthand the power of sports in bridging divides and creating opportunities.
Interviewer: Kevin, you've been a pivotal figure in Boston’s sports scene. What does "Good in Every Hood" mean to you?
Kevin Nunez: Good in every hood is what a lot of us city kids call a hood pass for athletes. It’s an unwritten rule that allows athletes to play wherever they want without being affected by gang violence. Sports is a unique way we’ve been able to bring people together, no matter your race, ethnicity, religion, or background. As an athlete growing up in the inner city, gang activity and violence, unfortunately, have affected a lot of our youth. Basketball gave me an opportunity to stay on the right path and focus on school. It molded me to become the best version of myself on and off the court while also being a role model for the younger generation in my area, showing them if I was able to be successful with this game, so can they.
Interviewer: That’s powerful. How did basketball specifically help you navigate your community and beyond?
Kevin Nunez: Basketball allowed me to venture off from my own community and meet different people from different parts of the city who had the same ambitions and admiration for the game that I did. The love for the game brings the city together in the most amazing way, as we see with tournaments like BNBL, Score 4 More, Dorchester vs. Roxbury, and many more. These tournaments allow our communities to compete against each other, showcase our skills, and share our love for the game.
Interviewer: What are some of your favorite spots in Boston that have a special place in your heart?
Kevin Nunez: Some of my favorite spots in Southie are definitely Andrew’s House of Pizza—anyone from Southie knows that’s one of the best spots for years. Another memorable spot for me as an athlete is definitely my community center, the Condon, where I grew up playing basketball with all my friends. And of course, Moakley Park, where I’d spend all my summer days and nights playing.
Interviewer: Your journey is inspiring. What message do you have for the younger generation looking up to you?
Kevin Nunez: Stay focused, stay dedicated, and remember that sports can be your ticket to opportunities beyond what you can imagine. Use the game to connect with others, learn from them, and grow. If I was able to be successful, so can you. The love for the game and the community it builds is something truly special.
Kevin’s story is a testament to the resilience and unity that sports can foster in our neighborhoods. His journey from the courts of Southie to the professional stage is a beacon of hope for many. At Mathmatik Athletics, we celebrate athletes like Kevin, who show us that there is indeed “Good in Every Hood.” Let’s continue to support and uplift our communities, one game at a time.