When Mike Harris returns to Houston this offseason, he will have more than another year in the international spotlight to add to his already impressive professional basketball resume. The Rice University record holder, Houston Rocket reserve, and reigning NBA Development League MVP, is diving head first into the world of philanthropy. Reconnecting with former Colorado 14ers (NBADL) teammate and HSBCAMPS Founder Carson Sofro, Harris has found his niche giving back to communities and young athletes through the game of basketball. “Carson and I’ve stayed in touch over the years. When he offered me the opportunity to come out to camp last summer in Boise, I jumped on it,” explains Harris. “Seeing first hand what HSBCAMPS was all about, and the time and effort they put into developing every player, I knew I wanted a bigger part.” Following camp in June, Harris returned to Houston determined to bring an HSBCAMPS program to the “Lone Star” state. After a little collaborating and organization, that determination became a reality.
“When I initially spoke with Mike, getting a camp to Texas was a major priority, as that was and has always been his home,” shared Sofro. “He felt there were a lack of quality opportunities for kids in the area and it was something we decided to work very hard to fix.” With the help of Harris, HSBCAMPS recently opened its 2011 summer campaign with two Texas locations. “Legends Sports Complex” of the Woodlands and “Forney Sports Center”, outside Dallas, will play host to all participants looking to; “come play with the pros.” The morning and day camps will be an excellent opportunity for kids at the elementary, middle, and high school grades to enhance their skills training one-on-one with HSBCAMPS All-Star staff of professional and collegiate players and coaches from all over the world. In addition, a portion of the proceeds from both the Houston and Dallas events will be donated back to various entities within each of the respective communities.
“It is very exciting to see this all come together,” Harris added. “I can’t wait to get back on the court and work with the kids again this June.” Harris is now part of a growing list of NBA players that will be coaching during the 2011 camp season. Along with Houston and Dallas, the nationally expanding youth basketball camp will also be serving up high scoring experiences in Boise, Idaho; Hailey, Idaho; Twin Falls, Idaho; Bend, Ore.; Medford, Ore.; Park City, Utah; and Bellevue, Wash. For more information or to register visit www.hsbcamps.com.
