by Bill Turner
Orlando Magic guard J.J. Redick was back in the Roanoke Valley this week to conduct his 3-day basketball skills development camp at North Cross, followed
by the Redick Charity Golf Tournament Saturday at Ballyhack Golf Course.
Over 60 enthusiastic campers filled the North Cross gym on Tuesday for the first day of intense drills that focused on offensive and defensive fundamentals.
“It’s an unique opportunity for a high school or middle school player to actually learn from an outstanding NBA player,” camp director and Redick’s former coach at Cave Spring, Billy Hicks, noted.
Tuesday’s drills were also taught by Louisville Cardinal and former Hidden Valley guard Luke Hancock, Vanderbilt big-man and former Cave Spring center Josh Henderson, as well as other current players in the college ranks.
On Saturday, Redick will be joined by other NBA players for the celebrity captain’s choice tournament at the prestigious Ballyhack. Proceeds from last year’s inaugural event raised $40,000 for both the Child Health Investment Partnership and Children’s Miracle Network.
“It says a lot about Southwest Virginia and J.J.,” Children’s Miracle Network Director Erin Hildreth said Tuesday. “It takes a community effort and we’re appreciative to J.J. for what he’s done to impact our organization.”
