Hundreds of young basketball enthusiasts gathered in Fort Smith for the second annual Jaylin Williams Youth Basketball Camp, an event that has quickly grown in popularity. With tickets selling out in just 40 seconds, the camp has become a summer highlight for kids eager to learn from Oklahoma City Thunder NBA champion Jaylin Williams.
The Fort Smith camp, held at Williams’ alma mater, Northside High School, brought 150 kids together for an unforgettable day of basketball drills, lessons, and inspiring mentorship. “Oh, I will remember this for my whole entire life,” said 7-year-old participant Jack Jones from Fayetteville, beaming with excitement. “I’m just really proud of Jaylin teaching all of us tonight. And I’m proud of myself for being an All-Star. I’m really happy right now.”
Reflecting on his motivation for hosting the camp, Williams said, “Anything for the kids. I want them to have an amazing time. As a kid, you dream of things like this, and I hope that when they go back to school, they say this was their favorite thing in the summer.”
The NBA champ’s connection to the community is deep-rooted. Williams began his basketball journey in Fort Smith at the Boys and Girls Club before starring for the Northside Grizzlies in high school. He emphasized the importance of showing kids that dreams begin where they stand today. “Walking through the gym, I walk those same steps,” Williams said. “I think the biggest thing is showing these kids that me and [my peers] came to these same Boys and Girls Club, the same high school, same junior highs, and same parks.”
Fort Smith Mayor George McGill cheered on the young athletes from courtside, commending Williams for his dedication to the community. “I know he’s exhausted, but he’s here to give back to the kids here in Fort Smith,” McGill said. “It gives people an opportunity to see what giving back actually looks like and what it feels like to be on the receiving end.”
The camp not only inspired dreams but also encouraged teamwork and dedication. “I could do this too one day,” Jones said. “Teamwork and you have to learn the game of basketball and play every day.”
Proceeds from the camp benefit the Grizzly Cub Youth Football and Cheer organization, ensuring that the event gives back to the community in more ways than one. Williams told 40/29 News that the camp will return next summer and for years to come, continuing to offer kids opportunities to dream big and work hard.