When Brea Olinda High School senior Krish Parikh steps onto the basketball court, his focus extends far beyond the game. What started as a simple idea in ninth grade has grown into a nonprofit organization making a real impact in the lives of students with special needs.
Krish founded Swish as a way to combine his passion for basketball with a desire to give back to the community. The program provides students with special needs the opportunity to learn the game while also practicing important life skills. Each week, Krish coaches about 13 students, helping them improve on the court while building communication, confidence, and friendships.
Swish is more than just basketball,” Krish explained. “It’s about creating a safe place where students can learn basic skills, connect with others, have fun, and feel like they have a place where they feel included.”
Krish shared that one of his most memorable moments coaching came when a non-verbal student named William made his first basketball shot. “Before that, he would just wander around and wasn’t really engaged,” Krish recalled. “After that first shot, he came to practice with so much energy and enthusiasm. That moment really showed how much impact the program can have.”
Krish’s leadership extends beyond his non-profit work. As a shooting guard on the BOHS Boys Varsity Basketball team, he is also on a path toward a four-year university with hopes of pursuing a career in medicine. During his freshman and sophomore years, he completed the Wildcat Medical Pathway, gaining early exposure to the medical field. He has applied to UCLA, UC Santa Barbara, UC Irvine, Stanford, and NYU among other colleges and universities.
In addition, Krish recently published his first book, Swish, to share the story of his program and inspire others to create positive change. The book is available for purchase through Amazon and proceeds from the book go directly to AUsome Sauce, a nonprofit that provides resources, community, and support for caregivers of young neurodiverse children.
As graduation approaches next year, Krish’s impact will continue to be felt both on and off the court. His vision, compassion, and dedication to serving others exemplify the spirit of a Wildcat, leaving a lasting mark on the BOHS community.
Photos: Courtesy of Krish Parikh and Brea Olinda High School