BASKETBALL PROS SPREAD KNOWLEDGE AT NBN CAMPS

By Jay Leon Guerrero

An elite trio of athletes are on Guam to help with the Nothing But Net (NBN) Summer Basketball Camps for youth and adults. Anthony Bathalon, Steve Castleberry, and Lindsey Moore are all on Guam with the help of NBN to spread their knowledge of basketball.

Here are some short background information about the athletes:

* Steve Castleberry, a former NBA player with the Philadelphia 76ers and has also played overseas. Nicknamed “Seven Foot Steve” as he stands at 7 feet tall. Steve has played with such notable players like Allen Iverson, Nate Robinson and Tracey McGrady.

Lindsey Moore working with the youngsters on dribble techniques. (photo by Robert Balajadia)

* Lindsey Moore, NCAA All American player with the University of Nebraska and 2013 Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) Champion with the Minnesota Lynx. She is currently an assistant coach with Arizona State University Women’s Sun Devils Basketball Team.

* Anthony Bathalon, A professional player with the American Basketball Association (ABA) and player for the St. Pete Tide, St. Petersburg, FL and founder of One Dream Elite Basketball Training Program. Mr. Bathalon is an international skills trainer for the NBA, WNBA and FIBA.

“You can tell there is a need and a want for development of Basketball here on Guam. I’m excited to be here and help that regard,” said Moore. The three athletes worked with a group of youth at the Tiyan High School gym during a morning session.

“We can provide much for the kids becaue we all have different experiences and been to so many places around the world. We hope to offer something to the players that may not be available to them on the Island. We are happy to provide our experience and knowledge to help the kids see a different perspective on how to play the game of basketball,” said Castleberry.

“I see so much potential here on Guam. Work and skill always come first and that doesn’t matter if you are in a field of sports or a field of medicine. Once we get the kids consistently training at a high level and understanding the importance of what it means to work first; then the level of talent in general will rise here,” said Bathalon.

NBN will continue the clinics which will also offer an Adult Fantasy Basketball Camp which will run on July 3, 5 and 6 at the UOG Calvo Field House from 7-9pm. On July 4th, the professional players will go against the GBA champion Bombers at 2pm. (Contact [email protected] or call 929-2575 for details)

When the pros are not on the court, they will try and enjoy the scenery of the Island. “I’ve been to many parts of the world and this place is been one of the most hospitable,” said Bathalon. “The people are very nice here and they’ve really embraced us,” said Moore. “Guam definately has good food, and there is a lot of it,” she joked.

“We’ve been in the gym for most of our trip so far, but I’m hoping to get a chance at enjoying the nature side of the Island,” said Castleberry. “One of the things I have enjoyed the most is the hospitality and how nice the people are here, it’s just unbelievable.”

Anthony and Steve demonstrate drills to the camp attendees. (photo by Robert Balajadia)

Exhibition game

The three pro athletes will be showcased in an exhibition game against the Andersen Bombers. Doors open at 1pm at the UOG Calvo Field House and the game starts at 7pm. The entrance fee is $15 dollars for adults and $10 for kids (military discount available). “I’m excited for this game, I think I’m the tallest guy on the Island right now,” joked Castleberry. Castleberry urged all fans to come out and watch the game. “Come and see some dunks and I just might step out and shoot a three.”

Expect a high-level, action packed game that will be played with the PROs. The Andersen Bombers will be competing against the 3 professionals who will be teamed with other local players. Skills contests, half time entertainment, a raffle with cell phones from IConnect as prizes along with other prizes and other family friendly activities will be held before and after the game, including a Meet and Greet with the players.

When: Tuesday, July 4, 2017
Where: University of Guam Calvo Fieldhouse
Time: Doors open at 1:00 pm
*Tickets for the Exhibition Game can be purchased online at eventbrite.com or at the door.

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