More than 50 aspiring basketball players from Grades 8 to 12 gathered at Chilliwack Secondary school for Chilliwack Basketball Association's Elite Camp, featuring an impressive lineup of experts with NBA G League and professional basketball experience. This four-day event, tailored to elevate local talent, was met with enthusiasm and delivered invaluable lessons to young athletes eager to refine their skills.
The camp kicked off on Aug. 12 with a dynamic session led by AJ Albritton, a notable coach from Western Washington's NCAA Division II program. This seasoned skills coach, who has previously coached in the NBA G League with the Houston Rockets, brought a wealth of knowledge and elite skills regimen that set a high standard for the rest of the camp.
On Aug. 13, Trevor Pridie, the head coach of the Trinity Western University men's basketball team and a former Raptors G League coach, took the reins. Pridie's session was a highlight for many players, as his experience with the Toronto Raptors' G League and winning a NBA championship ring as a coach offered a unique perspective on the intricacies of high-level play and coaching strategies.
The final two days of the camp featured Marek Klassen, a current European professional player and former G League standout with the Vancouver Bandits. Klassen’s sessions on Aug. 14 and 15 provided players with firsthand insights into the professional game, focusing on advanced techniques and mental preparation necessary for success at higher levels of competition.
Players and coaches alike reported a positive atmosphere throughout the camp, with participants expressing their excitement and appreciation for the high-quality instruction. "The level of coaching was beyond what I expected," said Ixara Forstbauer, a Grade 10 player. "Each coach had a different style and perspective, which really helped me improve my game in ways I hadn’t anticipated."
Overall, the camp is reported to have been a resounding success, providing Chilliwack’s young athletes with a rare opportunity to enhance their skills and gain exposure to elite coaching. As these players head into the new season, they carry with them not only improved techniques but also a renewed passion for the game, inspired by their interaction with some of the top basketball professionals in the field.
Those interested in playing basketball this fall can check out Chilliwack Basketball Associations Fall Club Teams for players in Grades 3 - 9 - More information can be found at chilliwackbasketball.ca.
