Behind the scenes at Devin Vassell's free basketball camp

On August 5th, San Antonio Spur Devin Vassell returned back to his hometown of Suwanee, Georgia to hold  his second annual basketball camp. It was completely free to youth who signed up and was hosted by the B3 Academy founded by Brent Benson. Their slogan of “using our past to help athletes with their future" is exactly what took place Saturday as well-equipped and energized instructors from the organization assisted the campers through developmental exercises. 

The camp was divided into two sessions -- one for elementary and middle school-aged students in the morning and one for high school-aged youth. For both sessions, attendees were greeted with a custom camp t-shirt before heading to the gym. As they entered the facilities, a DJ played classic upbeat hits while the players engaged in a shoot-around to warm up. Next, they were split into groups based upon grade level so that they trained with their peers.

Each goal around the gym was assigned a trainer from the B3 Academy organization who provided direction on the skill the child was developing. These skills consisted of dribbling, ball handling, defense, and shooting, to name a few. The participants rotated from goal to goal while the trainers kept the youth at all ages engaged the entire time. If a group was watching their peers engage in a task, they were prompted by their coaches to encourage them. 

After the exercises and games, Devin Vassell spoke to the campers about how no dream is too big. The veteran is going into his fourth year in the NBA after being doubted his entire amature basketball career. The moral of his speech was that no matter the career path you choose, remain dedicated and consistent in your craft because you are your biggest supporter. 

As the camp came to a close, the students were able to take pictures with Vassell. Zaxby's supplied to-go meals to ensure the youth didn’t go home hungry after a tough workout, but food was not the only goodie campers took home. Custom backpacks, metal water bottles, an exclusive Devin Vassell poster, and standard school supplies were among the gifts distributed. The gear featured a custom made design by Steel Plate personnel.

The goal for Devin, the Vassell family, and the B3 Academy is to continue to grow this camp every year expanding their sponsors. The most important thing is the amount of children they can serve in the community. The vision is multiple sessions over multiple days while still remaining a completely free event.

The aspiration may seem large, but by now, most should know that when Devin Vasell sets a goal, you should expect a gradual incline to the accomplishment.