D’Tigers star Eric to hold basketball camp in Lagos

Nigerian basketball star Michael Eric is set to host his Top 50 elite basketball camp in Lagos on July 24. The initiative is spearheaded by the Erico Sports Legacy Foundation, a non-profit established by Eric in honor of his late father, Joe Erico, a former Super Eagles goalkeeper and coach.

Eric, who grew up in Lagos, stated that the camp's purpose is to create opportunities for young Nigerians who share his passion for basketball but lack access to development platforms. "The journey became doing it not just for me, but doing it for those who wanted to do this but could not," Eric explained, emphasizing his desire to mentor and impact the next generation.

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The journey became doing it not just for me, but doing it for those who wanted to do this but could not. So hearing many stories stayed with me to think of doing something for Nigerian youths, not just with basketball but mentorship and impacting the next generation.

Initially focused on academics at his father's insistence, Eric's basketball career began after a growth spurt and a visit to the U.S. He eventually earned a scholarship to Temple University and was signed by the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Erico Sports Legacy Foundation has been running for five years, solely funded by Eric, providing training in basketball fundamentals, discipline, and life skills to boys and girls aged 14-18.

Programme director Gbenga Jetawo highlighted that the foundation has trained over 1,000 children, with some securing scholarships abroad. The upcoming Top 50 camp will gather 50 young players and coaches from across Nigeria. Organizers aim to identify standout talents, expose them to international standards through drills and training, and provide gear. The top athletes may receive sponsorship or trials with European clubs.

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We train them in basics of basketball, encourage and mentor them, and advise them. We don’t stop in basketball, and if we see the kids have interest in other things, we encourage them to chase it as well.