What Nikki Spoelstra says about her new project in Miami: ‘A dream’

When Nikki Spoelstra organizes play dates for her brood in the not too distant future, there soon will be a cool new place to go.

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The Underline Play Forest in South Miami, part of a 10 mile-long path built under Metrorail tracks along U.S. 1, is named after their mom.

That’s thanks to the local influencer’s $500,000 donation, which she said is money well spent.

“I’m excited about it, this was my dream,” the former Miami Heat dancer told the Miami Herald. “It’s such a feel-good project.”

The West Kendall native revealed the philanthropic move came from a desire to be more involved in the community after her high-profile divorce from Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra in 2023.

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“I wanted to be a part of something like a park to move the needle and make a difference,” said the 39-year-old podcaster. “Nature, exploration and creativity are all things I’m passionate about. I also wanted to create something that would have lasting impact that my kids would be able to experience, too.”

All of the ex-couple’s children — Santiago, 8, Dante, 6, and Ruby, 3 — will be on hand at the playground’s grand opening Aug. 15. Spoelstra (née Sapp) explained that she already taught them about the significance of the Underline, which spans from the Miami River to Dadeland.

“The fact that it’s connected to all types of neighborhoods and economic levels makes it really special,” said Spoelstra, who just returned from a Disney cruise with her crew (plus grandpa). “My kids are fortunate to have more access than I did. Not that you want them to struggle or have friction, but it’s important to teach these lessons. They can be a part of making Miami extraordinary.”

Info

Nikki Spoelstra Play Forest (adjacent to South Miami City Hall) opens Aug. 15 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Bring the family for live music, face-painting, balloon art, arts and crafts, food and beverage vendors. All tours will be self-guided.

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