Derrick Ashley’s Legacy Lives On | Omaha News

A sixteen-year-old basketball star, Derrick Ashley, tragically passed away on the Fourth of July, leaving his community heartbroken. For five years, he was a devoted member of Operation NETS, a youth basketball program started by Omaha police officers after they fixed a broken hoop and saw kids playing — Derrick was there the next night and never missed a beat. Beyond hoops, the program gave him unforgettable moments — from College World Series games to meeting Magic Johnson — while helping him overcome daily challenges with grit and heart. Officers watched him grow, calling him a good kid with big dreams. Now, as he prepares to start his junior year, his loss has sparked a powerful outpouring of support, with a GoFundMe raising funds for his family. Lieutenant Dan Martin reminds everyone: Derrick always showed up — now it’s time for the community to show up for him. Operation NETS will continue, honoring Derrick’s legacy and proving how one young life can change a city. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/d0a00abd8c18b785