Dubai: Denver Nuggets forward and NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) champion Mason Plumlee will team back up with Duplays, the region’s largest sports provider, to host the second edition of his youth basketball camp in Dubai next month.
The ‘Mason Plumlee Basketball Academy’ will be held from August 28 to 31 at Aflec School near Al Nasr Club in Oud Mehta as part of the 2018 Duplays DXB Hoops Summit, to promote the growth of basketball in the UAE.
Plumlee’s camp is open to 8-18 year-olds and will feature skill development, competition and personalised training led by the NBA star and his team of coaches.
“I’m very excited to return to Dubai,” said Plumlee. “I enjoyed my experience last year and look forward to an even bigger and more exciting camp this summer. There will be something for everyone — for kids who are new to the game and advanced players looking to take their skills to the next level. Based on my experience last year, it’s clear that there is a demand for quality basketball instruction and opportunities for local youth to learn the game.”
Led by Plumlee — including coaches and members of the NCAA Championship winning outfit, the Villanova Wildcats, and staff from the Kobe Bryant Academy — participants will take part in a full programme learning on-court drills and basketball fundamentals, while receiving one-on-one training.
Over the four-day schedule, besides improving their game under the watchful eye of an NBA star, participants will also have the chance for photos and autographs with Mason, while taking home a Nike shirt.
“Basketball doesn’t require a great deal of expense or space,” added Plumlee. “You just need a ball and a hoop. Once kids have exposure to playing the game and realise how fun it can be, they’ll be hooked. Basketball has always been an important part of my life. My parents (Perky and Leslie) both played in college. My two brothers (Miles and Marshall) also play in the NBA. I’ve learned from and played with some of the best players and coaches, now I want to share these experiences with kids in Dubai and around the world. My goal is to make this a long-term commitment.”
Plumlee and Duplays are said to be exploring a partnership that would include annual camps and a year-round basketball development programme for youth in the region, as well as a world-class training and certification programme for instructors.
Ravi Bhusari, Founder of Duplays, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Mason again and look forward to giving kids the opportunity to fulfil their basketball dream. At Duplays we will continue to strive to drive the growth of the region’s sports industry, and encourage healthier living for people of all ages.”
The 2018 Mason Plumlee Basketball Academy runs from 10am to 2pm from August 28 to 31. Registration costs Dh900 per person. To sign up visit duplays.com
