Written and photographed by Marika N. Johnson | For the Birmingham Times
Returning to his Alabama roots, former University of Alabama at Birmingham standout and New York Knicks NBA champion Trey Jemison III hosted a free youth basketball camp Tuesday in Hoover, giving young athletes the opportunity to develop their skills while learning valuable lessons on and off the court.
Campers participated in drills focused on shooting, ball handling, defense, and teamwork as Jemison shared his journey from Hoover High School basketball to UAB and ultimately the NBA. Throughout the day, he emphasized the importance of hard work, discipline, and perseverance, encouraging participants to chase their goals regardless of the obstacles they may face.
Ten-year-old Amir Ranier, who attended the camp, usually begins his day at 4:30 a.m. with basketball practice at the Hoover Recreation Center. A point guard, he plays travel basketball with AAU Team Mookie in Nashville and locally with The Guyz, while also training with Coach Boss at Big Guard Academy. Although he had already completed a morning workout, Amir said attending Jemison’s camp was a priority because he sees himself in the NBA standout.
“People didn’t believe in Trey, and he’s made it to the highest level,” Amir said. “I’m smaller than most kids my age, and a lot of people don’t think I have what it takes. I believe that if I continue to get 2% better every day, I can make it just like Trey.”
Jemison said that he is here, “because this is home for me. I graduated from Hoover and played for UAB. God has been so good to me, so I have to give back. Blessed to be able to come back and bless children who are like me!”
He continued, “I’ve been able to move around and experience so much in my career, playing in New Orleans, playing with the Lakers, and winning championships. There are so many people who love the game and I am able to impact them — something I love to do already, so it’s been a blessing.”
The free camp not only offered quality basketball instruction but also reinforced the value of community. By returning home to invest in local youth, Jemison continues to inspire the next generation of Alabama athletes and serves as a reminder that success is measured not only by achievements on the court, but by giving back to those following in your footsteps.
