By Shaniece Nicole (IG: shaniece_nicole_)
LONG BEACH, CA – The most valuable experience that can be afforded to a child who has their heart planted firmly in something that they love is to provide a hands-on experience from someone who has succeeded in their desired interest.
B-Baller Summer Camp is an athlete-to-pro instruction and interaction pipeline. The program goal is to advance the play of young athletes through low monthly costs, weekly practices, and expert guidance. Founder and CEO Gregory Smith continues to nourish the fundamentals of basketball by emphasizing footwork, ball-handling, and defense.
During a two-week basketball summer program in Long Beach, California, athletes from the ages of 7-14 would join former Golden State Warrior and NBA champion Jordan Bell for a 10-hour week, hands-on basketball program. The objectives of each session were clearly identified to accomplish optimal improvement in the sport, providing a safe space for encouragement and growth, all while improving the social and emotional well-being of children through play.
Bell’s teaching style consisted of a variety of methods from developmental, holistic, and democratic. Campers were encouraged to grow through failure. They were held accountable if proper instructions were given before a drill and opted out of focusing, resulting in a run to the baseline and back. Bell addressed each camper by their name, which enabled him to form a special bond with each and every one of them. Each day, an additional component was added. Once campers were taught the basics of the game, they were required to demonstrate their knowledge by engaging in “limited mistake drills.” If they doubled-dribbled the drill was over.
Defense would also be a priority as Bell holds the second-most blocks in a single game in Oregon Ducks history and is the school’s career leader in blocks. Focusing on the nuances of the game allowed campers to build their confidence day-by-day. Demonstration was integral, as it enhanced players’ understanding and attitudes towards the learning person.
“If I saw a mistake I corrected it rather than allow them to continue to make the same mistake. A few couldn’t dribble when they came here,” said Bell. “They would pick the ball up and dribble and by day three they were dribbling.”
Campers would also enjoy competitive games and come face to face with challenges in high-pressure moments, such as reacting to defensives and staying composed with limited time on the clock. They were motivated to try their best in every facet. The NBA champion would continue to make memories and connections throughout the day.
A special moment would arise when Jordan asked one of the campers to throw him an alley-oop, jumping over another camper. These types of moments would continue as Bell would participate in drills, play defense, and get rebounds for campers. It was clear that he was there to serve. His attentiveness was admirable by parents who stayed to watch their children practice.
The 27-year-old credits fatherhood and his 10-month-old son for his patience and ability to pay attention to detail.
“It takes time for everything,” said the new father Bell.
He proceeded to share a special moment about his son learning how to stand on his own and realizing that this is a building block in his development of mobility.
The same method is applied in basketball. Repetition and practice are essential building blocks. Bell, along with his team of coaches, would establish awareness, consistency, and fairness for campers to thrive and enjoy themselves.
The Oregon Duck alumni represented Team USA in the 2022 Men’s World Cup Qualifying Games in Puerto Rico and Cuba.
