Hall of Famer Brother Alonzo Mourning, known for his legendary career in the NBA, is now cementing his legacy off the court by investing in communities that need him most. Through his nonprofit, AM Affordable Housing, Mourning partnered with the Housing Trust Group (HTG) to launch Astoria on 9th, a $37.4 million affordable senior housing community in Bradenton, Florida. The five-story, 120-unit development welcomed the public at a grand opening ceremony on May 27, where Mourning was joined by city and county leaders to celebrate this milestone.
Astoria on 9th is designed for residents aged 55 and older, offering one- and two-bedroom apartments priced between $322 and $1,316 per month—well below the area’s average rent. The project addresses a critical shortage of affordable housing for seniors, an issue Mourning emphasized as urgent. “There’s a shortage of 7 million affordable houses across the country,” he noted. “You can’t build them fast enough.”
The development combines affordability with quality of life. Residents enjoy access to a clubroom, cyber café with a catering kitchen, fitness center, surface parking, and even a dog park. In addition, supportive services such as adult literacy training, housekeeping assistance, and grocery support are included, ensuring that seniors can thrive in a dignified and community-centered environment.
For Bro. Mourning, this mission is personal. Raised in foster care after being born to teenage parents, he credits retired teacher Fannie Threet, who fostered 49 children, with instilling in him the values of generosity and service. Those lessons guide his work today. “Not only is it business, but we’re helping our community as well,” Mourning said. “It’s a tremendous need.”
Community leaders echoed his commitment. Jordan Tolman, COO of HTG, highlighted the project as a model of public-private collaboration. Stephanie Green of Fifth Third Bank, which helped finance the development, described it as more than just housing: “Together, we’re not just building housing—we’re building dignity, opportunity, and a stronger future for our seniors.”
Astoria on 9th also features a commissioned public art piece titled Embrace by artist Saro Utukian, symbolizing the bond between generations. This emphasis on connection reflects the deeper mission of Mourning’s vision: to create spaces where elders are valued, their wisdom respected, and their futures secured. In Bradenton, Alonzo Mourning is proving that leadership doesn’t end with basketball—it continues in building bridges for others to cross.
