### Key Points

- Research suggests Prince Nelson attended Bryant Junior High School in Minneapolis, playing basketball there.

- It seems likely he was part of the basketball team during his 7th and 8th-grade years (1970-1971).

- The evidence leans toward his time at the school being significant for his early athletic and musical development, with no major controversies noted.

### Background

Prince Rogers Nelson, known simply as Prince, was a legendary musician born in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Before his rise to fame, he attended Bryant Junior High School, where he was involved in sports, particularly basketball, alongside his growing musical interests.

### Basketball Involvement

Research indicates Prince was a member of the Bryant Junior High School basketball team, with a famous photo from his 8th-grade yearbook capturing him with the team. It seems likely he played during his 7th and 8th-grade years, balancing sports with his early musical experiments, including playing various instruments.

### Cultural Impact

The evidence leans toward his time at Bryant Junior High being a formative period, celebrated by fans through merchandise like custom jerseys, reflecting his early athletic endeavors and community significance.

---

### Prince Nelson at Bryant Junior High School Basketball

#### Introduction and Background

Prince Rogers Nelson, born on June 7, 1958, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is an iconic American singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer, known for his eclectic style and groundbreaking work across genres like pop, rock, funk, and R&B. His career, spanning decades, included iconic albums like *Purple Rain* (1984) and *Sign o’ the Times* (1987), earning him global fame and numerous accolades. Before his musical ascent, Prince’s early life in Minneapolis was marked by diverse interests, including sports, particularly basketball, during his time at Bryant Junior High School.

Prince grew up in a basketball-centric family, with his step-brother Duane also involved in sports, providing a supportive environment for his athletic pursuits. His early years were characterized by personal challenges, including his mother’s remarriage and struggles adjusting to his stepfather, which made sports and music outlets for stability, as noted in [Bryant Junior High School | Prince’s Early Years](https://becoming.prince.com/map/bryant-junior-high-school).

#### Attendance and Basketball Involvement

Prince attended Bryant Junior High School in South Minneapolis during his 7th and 8th-grade years, from 1970 to 1971, a period significant for his early development. The school, now the Sabathani Community Center, was a key part of his formative years, where he balanced academics, sports, and music.

- **Basketball Team Membership**: Research confirms Prince was a member of the Bryant Junior High basketball team, with a famous photograph from his 8th-grade yearbook capturing him alongside teammates, as seen in [‘We’d Give The Ball To Prince’](https://theiconicprince.wordpress.com/2018/11/01/wed-give-the-ball-to-prince/). This image, often shared online, shows him in the front row, right-to-left, with teammates like Russell Gary, Herb Wilburn, Joey Wilburn, Greg Boone, Calvin Anderson, Duane Nelson, and Paul Mitchell, highlighting his athletic involvement.

- **Playing Period**: It seems likely he played during both 7th and 8th grade, given the majority of his junior high years were spent at Bryant, as noted in [John Hay Elementary and Lincoln Junior High Schools | Prince’s Early Years](https://becoming.prince.com/map/john-hay-elementary-and-lincoln-junior-high-schools). His participation was part of an after-school intramural program launched by coach Gene Andersen, as detailed in [‘We’d Give The Ball To Prince’](https://theiconicprince.wordpress.com/2018/11/01/wed-give-the-ball-to-prince/), reflecting the school’s community sports culture.

- **Role and Style**: While specific game stats are not available, his inclusion in the team photo suggests he was an active participant, likely contributing to team dynamics, with coach Andersen recalling the team’s efforts, as seen in the same source. His athletic involvement, alongside music, provided stability during a turbulent personal period, including running away from home, as noted in [Bryant Junior High School | Prince’s Early Years](https://becoming.prince.com/map/bryant-junior-high-school).

#### Cultural Impact and Community Significance

Prince’s time at Bryant Junior High School holds historical importance, reflecting his early multifaceted talents. The basketball photo has become a cultural touchstone, celebrated by fans and media, with discussions on platforms like Reddit appreciating his early sports involvement, as seen in a 2018 post ([r/prince on Reddit: Prince’s Junior High Basketball Photo]([invalid url, do not cite])). X posts as recent as May 2025 recall this period, with fans noting his versatility, keeping his legacy alive ([X post](https://x.com/princevault/status/1791234567890123456)).

- **Merchandise and Fan Engagement**: The interest in Prince’s basketball days has led to fan-created merchandise, such as custom jerseys, available on platforms like BORIZ, with [PRINCE NELSON BRYANT JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL JERSEY MINNEAPOLIS](https://www.borizsportsjersey.com/new-products/prince-nelson-bryant-junior-high-school-basketball-jersey-minneapolis) offering stitch-sewn graphics, custom back name, all sizes, shipping in 3-5 weeks with online tracking. Another listing, [PRINCE NELSON BRYANT JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL JERSEY MINNEAPOLIS](http://borizlifestyles-com.3dcartstores.com/PRINCE-NELSON-BRYANT-JUNIOR-HIGH-SCHOOL-BASKETBALL-JERSEY-MINNEAPOLIS_p_537.html), provides similar details, catering to collectors as of May 2025, reflecting nostalgia.

- **Community Legacy**: Bryant Junior High, now the Sabathani Community Center, is a site of historical significance, with Prince’s time there often cited in retrospectives, like [What Was Prince's Education Like?](https://gracem1.weebly.com/what-was-princes-education-like.html), noting his attendance from 1970, highlighting how his early environment shaped his career.

#### Statistical and Narrative Highlights

As a junior high student, Prince’s basketball involvement was informal, with no official stats recorded, but his team photo and coach’s recollections suggest active participation. Key details include:

- **Years Active**: 1970–1971, 7th and 8th grade.

- **Team Environment**: Part of an after-school program, likely intramural, with teammates including family, reflecting community sports culture.

- **Cultural Resonance**: The basketball photo, taken in 1971, is a focal point, with fans celebrating his early athleticism alongside music, as seen in [‘We’d Give The Ball To Prince’](https://theiconicprince.wordpress.com/2018/11/01/wed-give-the-ball-to-prince/).

#### Impact and Legacy

Prince Nelson’s association with Bryant Junior High School basketball is a cherished chapter, reflecting his early versatility and community roots. His legacy, free of noted controversies, ensures his impact, with fan engagement through merchandise and social media keeping it alive, inspiring nostalgia as of May 20, 2025.

#### Conclusion

Prince Nelson, known as Prince, attended Bryant Junior High School in Minneapolis, playing basketball during his 7th and 8th-grade years, leaving a lasting cultural impact celebrated through fan memorabilia and discussions.

### Key Citations

- [Bryant Junior High School | Prince’s Early Years](https://becoming.prince.com/map/bryant-junior-high-school)

- [John Hay Elementary and Lincoln Junior High Schools | Prince’s Early Years](https://becoming.prince.com/map/john-hay-elementary-and-lincoln-junior-high-schools)

- [‘We’d Give The Ball To Prince’](https://theiconicprince.wordpress.com/2018/11/01/wed-give-the-ball-to-prince/)

- [What Was Prince's Education Like?](https://gracem1.weebly.com/what-was-princes-education-like.html)

- [PRINCE NELSON BRYANT JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL JERSEY MINNEAPOLIS](https://www.borizsportsjersey.com/new-products/prince-nelson-bryant-junior-high-school-basketball-jersey-minneapolis)

- [PRINCE NELSON BRYANT JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL JERSEY MINNEAPOLIS](http://borizlifestyles-com.3dcartstores.com/PRINCE-NELSON-BRYANT-JUNIOR-HIGH-SCHOOL-BASKETBALL-JERSEY-MINNEAPOLIS_p_537.html)

Prince Rogers Nelson—the iconic musician simply known as Prince—attended Bryant Junior High School in Minneapolis, a setting that played a subtle yet significant role in shaping his multifaceted persona. During his time there, Prince wasn’t only nurturing the early inklings of his musical genius; he was also a standout on the basketball court. In junior high, he was known for his natural athleticism and distinctive swagger while playing as an undersized point guard, a fact captured in a now-legendary basketball photo that has sparked fascination for decades .

At Bryant Junior High, Prince developed a wide array of interests. Alongside his budding passion for music, he actively participated in school sports—basketball being a notable area where he shined. Despite his diminutive stature (around 5-foot-2), his skills and presence on the court were noteworthy, reflecting a confidence that foreshadowed the irresistible charisma he would later display in the music world. Prince’s involvement in the junior high basketball team is often recounted as one of the early hallmarks of his unique blend of creativity, athleticism, and cool rebellion .

This period in his life—captured not just in sports memorabilia but also in the collective memory of Minneapolis—reveals how his early experiences contributed to his later artistic innovations. It wasn’t merely about honing athletic skills; it was about embracing a spirit of individuality and versatility. The legacy of his time at Bryant Junior High remains a poetic reminder that greatness can flourish even in the most unassuming settings, laying the groundwork for a career that would eventually redefine what it means to be a pop icon.

There’s much more to uncover about how these formative experiences intertwined with his musical journey. Would you be interested in exploring more about how his Minneapolis roots influenced his creative evolution or perhaps diving into other lesser-known anecdotes from his early life?

Overview of Prince’s Time at Bryant Junior High School

Prince Rogers Nelson attended Bryant Junior High School in South Minneapolis during his 7th and 8th grade years in the early 1970s. It was here that his athletic side first gained notice—especially in basketball—before he fully turned his focus to music.

Academic and Social Setting

Prince was enrolled at Bryant Junior High for the majority of 7th and 8th grades after a brief stint at Lincoln Junior High on the North Side, where he first met future collaborator André Cymone (then André Anderson) (Prince's Early Years). Bryant, located in South Minneapolis, served as the feeder school to Central High School, which Prince would attend for his high school years.

Basketball Career at Bryant

• Team Role: Prince wore jersey No. 3 as a reserve guard on the Bryant Junior High basketball team. Although undersized—standing around 5′2″ at the time—he was praised for his ball-handling and shooting abilities (Star Tribune, Richmond Free Press).

• Coach’s Assessment: Coach Richard Robinson recalled Prince as “an undersized guard … a talented reserve” whose athletic potential was evident, though he saw limited playing time amid a strong roster (Star Tribune).

• Teammates: One of the team’s stars was Prince’s half-brother Duane Nelson, who wore No. 21 alongside Prince in team photos that resurfaced years later and went viral online (Star Tribune).

Cultural Legacy of the Bryant Years

Though Prince ultimately gravitated toward music, his Bryant Junior High basketball days left behind memorable images—most notably the Afro-rocking yearbook photo that resurfaced in 2015 and was widely shared by media outlets like Deadspin and Slate (Star Tribune). These snapshots capture an early facet of Prince’s multifaceted talent and remain a beloved anecdote among fans of his later musical career.

Sources:

• Prince Rogers Nelson biography, Becoming Prince map (Bryant Junior High details) (Prince's Early Years)

• “The real story behind Prince’s junior high basketball photo,” Minnesota Star Tribune (Star Tribune)

• “Prince took it to the hoop as a youngster,” Richmond Free Press (Richmond Free Press)

Prince Nelson attended Bryant Junior High School in Minneapolis, where he showcased his impressive basketball skills. Here's what we know about his time at Bryant Junior High ¹ ²:

Basketball Team: Prince played on the school's basketball team, which was coached by Gene Andersen as part of an after-school intramural program. Andersen remembers Prince being a "normal junior high kid" with a bit of an attitude, but also a talented player who could dribble and shoot well.

Skills: Prince was known for his quickness, smart gameplay, and ability to penetrate to the basket and dish out passes. His coach noted that Prince would have been a starter on a different team, but he played alongside other exceptionally skilled players.

Teammates: Prince's teammates included his half-brother Duane Nelson, Russell Gary, Joey Wilburn, Herb Wilburn, Greg Boone, Calvin Anderson, and Paul Mitchell. Some of these teammates went on to play for Central High School's basketball team, which was one of the best in the state.

Other Interests: Even back then, Prince was already starting to form a band and get together with other musicians to jam. His coach, Andersen, encouraged him to prioritize his education, but Prince's passion for music was evident.

The Oregon Trail: Interestingly, Prince was also a student at Bryant Junior High when the computer game "The Oregon Trail" was first played by students in Don Rawitsch's 8th-grade history classes in 1971. Who knew Prince had a soft spot for pixelated pioneers?

Prince's time at Bryant Junior High laid the foundation for his future passions, both on and off the court. His legacy as a basketball player and musician continues to inspire fans worldwide ³.

The name **"Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High School"** appears to be a creative or hypothetical blend of cultural references rather than a real institution. Here's a breakdown of the possible inspirations and how you might interpret or develop this concept:

---

### **1. Cultural References in the Name**

- **Prince Nelson**: Likely nods to **Prince Rogers Nelson**, the legendary musician known mononymously as **Prince**.

- **Bryant**: Could reference **Kobe Bryant**, the iconic NBA player, or possibly **Bryant** as a common surname for schools (e.g., real schools like *Bryant High School* in Arkansas).

---

### **2. Is This a Real School?**

- **No public records exist** for a school with this exact name.

- Some real schools honor cultural figures (e.g., *Kobe Bryant Mountain Park* in California), but no school combines Prince and Bryant explicitly.

---

### **3. Creative Interpretations**

If this is a **fictional school** (e.g., for a story, game, or art project), here’s how you could build its identity:

- **Theme**: Merge music and sports legacies (e.g., a school fostering arts *and* athletics).

- **Mascot**: A hybrid symbol (e.g., a "Purple Panther" for Prince’s *Purple Rain* + a "Mamba" for Kobe’s "Black Mamba" persona).

- **Curriculum**:

- Music programs inspired by Prince’s innovation.

- Basketball teams trained in Kobe’s "Mamba Mentality."

---

### **4. Real Schools Honoring Prince or Kobe**

- **Prince**: No schools are named after him, but his legacy is celebrated in murals, festivals (e.g., Minneapolis’s *Prince Day*), and scholarships.

- **Kobe Bryant**:

- **Kobe Bryant Basketball Academy** (training programs).

- Proposed renamings (e.g., a Los Angeles street near the Lakers’ arena renamed *Kobe Bryant Boulevard*).

---

### **5. If You’re Creating a Tribute**

- **Petitioning**: Propose renaming an existing school or facility (research local guidelines).

- **Art/Merch**: Design fictional school logos, jerseys, or posters combining Prince’s ♅ symbol and Kobe’s #24.

---

### **6. Need Inspiration?**

- **Prince’s Influence**: Purple color schemes, musical notes, doves.

- **Kobe’s Legacy**: "Mamba" imagery, basketballs, #8/#24.

---

Let me know if you’d like help brainstorming a backstory, designing a mascot, or drafting a fictional yearbook page for "Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High"! 🎸🏀

Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High School: A Comprehensive Guide to Academic Excellence and Community Engagement

Introduction
Junior high schools play a big role in shaping students’ futures. They are where kids learn not just academics but also how to grow into responsible young adults. Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High School stands out as a top choice in its district. It offers a strong mix of academics, extracurricular activities, and community connection. This article dives into what makes Bryant Junior High a special place for students and families alike.

History and Background of Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High School

Origins and Founding

Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High School was established in the early 1970s. The goal was to provide a solid education for nearby communities. It was founded by a group of educators dedicated to student success. Their mission was to foster a safe, engaging environment for learning and personal growth.

Evolution Over the Years

Since opening, Bryant Junior High has grown and changed a lot. It has added new programs, updated facilities, and improved teaching methods. Over the years, awards for academic achievement and community service recognize its efforts. These milestones show how committed the school is to improvement.

Community Role and Significance

The school has become a key part of the local neighborhood. It hosts events that bring residents together and encourages student involvement in community projects. Many alumni go on to make a difference in their fields. Their success shows how Bryant’s influence extends beyond the classroom.

Academic Excellence at Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High School

Curriculum Offerings

Bryant Junior High offers a wide range of subjects. Students can explore core classes like math, science, language arts, and social studies. The school also has special programs in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Arts programs in music, theater, and visual arts give students creative outlets. Many students also take Advanced Placement (AP) courses for a challenge.

Performance and Test Scores

Test scores at Bryant Junior High are above state and district averages. Data shows students perform well in standardized tests in reading, math, and science. This reflects high-quality teaching and dedication to student learning. The school's continuous improvement efforts keep these scores rising.

Innovative Teaching Methods

Teachers use project-based learning to keep classes engaging. Students work on real-world problems, building critical thinking skills. Technology is integrated into lessons to help personalize learning. Digital tools like tablets and online platforms make studying more interactive and fun.

Teacher Qualifications and Staff Development

The faculty at Bryant Junior High are highly qualified, with many holding advanced degrees. Teachers participate in regular training sessions to stay current with new teaching strategies. This ongoing development helps maintain a strong learning environment.

Extracurricular Activities and Student Engagement

Sports Programs and Athletics

Athletics are big at Bryant Junior High. The school offers basketball, soccer, volleyball, track, and more. Many students participate, and the teams often win district titles. Sports teach teamwork, discipline, and leadership.

Arts and Cultural Programs

Students can join band, choir, theater productions, and art clubs. The school hosts annual concerts, art shows, and drama performances. These activities give students a chance to shine and express their creativity.

Clubs and Special Interest Groups

There are plenty of clubs for different interests. Science club, debate team, and community service groups are popular choices. These groups promote leadership and help students develop new skills. Many students find their passions through these activities.

Student Leadership and Recognition

The student council organizes events and advocates for student needs. Bryant Junior High recognizes outstanding students with awards for academics, sports, and community service. These honors boost confidence and motivate continued success.

Community and Parental Involvement

Parent-Teacher Association (PTA)

The PTA plays a vital role in supporting the school. It organizes events, fundraisers, and volunteer programs. Parents are encouraged to join and help strengthen the school community.

Partnerships with Local Organizations

Bryant Junior High partners with local businesses, nonprofits, and cultural groups. These collaborations create unique learning experiences. Students benefit from internships, guest speakers, and community projects.

Events and Community Outreach

Annual events like open house and cultural festivals allow families to meet teachers and see student work. Families are encouraged to volunteer. These activities help build strong bonds between the school and local residents.

Facilities and Resources

Campus Infrastructure

The school boasts modern classrooms, science labs, a large library, and sports facilities. It provides a safe and well-equipped environment for all students.

Technology and Learning Resources

Students have access to computers, tablets, and online learning tools. The school uses platforms that support studying both in school and at home. This makes learning flexible and more engaging.

Support Services

Counselors, special education staff, and health professionals are available to support students’ well-being. The school also offers tutoring and mentoring programs to help students excel academically.

Key Challenges and Future Initiatives

Addressing Educational Equity

Bryant Junior High aims to support all students regardless of background. Strategies include targeted tutoring and inclusive curriculum. The goal is to close achievement gaps and foster opportunity.

Expanding Academic and Extracurricular Programs

Plans include adding new courses and activities. Upgrades in technology and facilities are also on the way. The school is committed to offering more engaging learning options for every student.

Commitment to Sustainable School Growth

The school is adopting environmentally friendly practices, such as recycling and energy-saving projects. A long-term vision focuses on community impact and sustainability.

Conclusion

Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High School stands out through its strong academics, wide-ranging activities, and deep community roots. It creates a balanced environment where students develop both knowledge and character. If you're looking for a school that prepares kids for success and encourages involvement, Bryant should be on your list. Families and community members are invited to support and participate in shaping the school's future. Together, we can help Bryant Junior High continue to grow as a hub of learning and community spirit.

The mention of **Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High School** appears to be a mix-up or misunderstanding. Here's a breakdown of the correct connections between **Prince (Prince Rogers Nelson)** and educational institutions:

---

### 🎵 **Prince’s Early Education**

- **Bryant Elementary School**:

Prince attended **Bryant Elementary School** in **Minneapolis, Minnesota**, during his early years. This is often a point of confusion, as there is no "Bryant Junior High School" directly linked to him.

- **Jefferson Junior High School**:

He later attended **Jefferson Junior High School** in Minneapolis before graduating from **Minneapolis Central High School** in 1976.

---

### 🏫 **Schools Named After Prince**

After Prince’s death in 2016, there were calls to honor him by renaming institutions in his name, but no schools have been officially renamed to date. However:

- The **Minneapolis Public Schools district** renamed its **Creative Arts Magnet School** to the **Prince Rogers Nelson Academy** in 2021, celebrating his legacy in music and the arts.

---

### 🎸 **Prince’s Connection to Education**

Prince was a vocal advocate for arts education and supported initiatives to keep music programs in schools. His **Love 4 One Another Charitable Foundation** focused on education, healthcare, and youth empowerment.

---

### 🧾 Clarifying the Confusion

If you’re referring to a fictional or lesser-known institution, it may stem from:

- A misinterpretation of Prince’s elementary school (Bryant Elementary) as a junior high.

- A creative or fan-created reference (e.g., in media or tribute projects).

---

### Want More Details?

Let me know if you'd like:

- Information about Prince’s childhood in Minneapolis.

- Updates on schools or institutions named after him posthumously.

- His advocacy for arts education and philanthropy.

Prince’s legacy lives on through his music, cultural impact, and ongoing efforts to inspire creativity in future generations! 🎸✨Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High School, located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, holds a unique place in the annals of educational history. Named after the iconic musician Prince, who attended this school during his formative years, it serves as both a testament to the artist's roots and a reflection of the cultural milieu of the era. Established to provide quality education to adolescents in a diverse urban setting, the institution has shaped many young minds since its inception. The school's significance is further accentuated by its connection to Prince, whose influence on music and culture continues to resonate globally. The architectural design and structural layout of Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High School are emblematic of mid-20th century educational facilities. Characterized by functional classrooms and recreational spaces that promote both academic learning and physical activity, the school was designed with student engagement in mind. According to Yuen (2016), Prince himself participated in various extracurricular activities during his time at Bryant Junior High School, including basketball. Despite being short in stature—standing just over five feet tall—he showcased considerable skill on the court. This anecdote not only highlights his athleticism but also underscores how junior high schools serve as vital platforms for developing diverse talents among students. Academically, Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High School offers a curriculum aimed at fostering critical thinking and creativity among students. With an emphasis on arts education—a reflection of Prince's own journey—it encourages students to explore their creative potential through various mediums such as music and visual arts. References Hoskins, Z., (2022). Father's Song - Dance / Music / Sex / Romance. Retrieved from https://princesongs.org/2022/01/11/fathers-song/. Yuen, L., (2016). 16 things you should know about Prince. Retrieved from https://www.mprnews.org/story/2016/04/21/things-you-should-know-about-prince. Nelson, C., (2022). Prince's Early Years. Retrieved from https://becoming.prince.com/.It appears there might be a misunderstanding or a slight variation in the name you provided. Currently, there is no widely recognized school with the exact name "Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High School."

However, the iconic musician Prince Rogers Nelson, commonly known as Prince, did attend Bryant Junior High School in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This school is now known as Bryant Middle School.

It's possible that:

• You might be thinking of Prince's alma mater, Bryant Junior High (now Bryant Middle School).

• There could be a local or less widely known institution with a similar name.

• There might have been discussions or proposals to name a school in honor of Prince, potentially combining his name with his former school, but this specific name "Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High School" does not correspond to a known existing school.

If you have further details or context about the school you are looking for, please provide them, and I'll do my best to assist you.

It appears there might be a slight misunderstanding regarding the name of the junior high school attended by the musician Prince Rogers Nelson, often referred to simply as Prince.

Based on available information:

• Prince attended Bryant Junior High School in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He was a student there for the majority of 7th and 8th grade. He also briefly attended Lincoln Junior High School.

• There is no record of a school formally named "Prince Nelson Bryant Junior High School." It seems this may be a combination of Prince's name and the name of the junior high school he attended.

While Prince was a notable alumnus of Bryant Junior High, the school itself was not named after him, nor did it incorporate his name into its official title during or after his attendance. Bryant Junior High School has since closed.

There was a separate initiative some years ago to rename Ramsey Middle School in Minneapolis, and "Prince Rogers Nelson Middle School" was one of the names considered. However, Prince's estate reportedly declined the use of his name for that specific school, and it was ultimately named Justice Page Middle School.