Jamaica's Samuels for Star Search basketball camp

University of Louisville-bound power forward, Jamaican Samardo Samuels, will be a guest at the eighth annual Star Search Basketball and Life Skills Development Camp set for July 13-18 at the GC Foster College of Physical Education and Sports.

The 6' 9" bigman, formerly of Muschette High in Trelawny, completes his final year at St Benedict's Prep in New Jersey this summer and is set to boost the Louisville Cardinals programme, which made the Elite Eight, or quarter-finals, of the National Championships for Division One Schools last month. Samuels is ranked as one of the top forwards graduating from American high schools this year and if he continues in the same vein will be a future NBA lottery pick.

Other Jamaican student athletes set to attend this year's camp include Mugabe Thomas, Daniel Rose, Ricardo Alliman, Christopher Walker, Jason Francis and Orville Perkins. Several US and local coaches will also attend.

Through the Star Search Camp, more than 75 student/athletes have received full basketball scholarships to US high schools, colleges and universities over the past seven years.

"We are excited to be able to host this camp for another year and to provide a positive influence on all camp participants," declared Gary Henry, president of JBD Inc. "Young adults, now more than ever, need positive support and mentorship to guide character development and to help them work towards their future aspirations."

The Jamaica Basketball Development (JBD) Inc, Jamaica Amateur Basketball Association (JABA), NIKE and Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) are the official sponsors of the camp. GC Foster College will once again accommodate the student/athletes for the duration of the camp. Registration begins on Sunday, July 13 at 6:00 p.m. at GC Foster College.

On Wednesday, July 16, JBD Inc and JABA plan to visit Marlie Mount and Old Harbour Bay Primary schools in St Catherine to continue their 'Kids First' programme.

Officials from both organisations, as well as some overseas-based student/athletes, will read with the students and stress to them the importance of academics. Books and school supplies will also be presented to both schools.

The JBD Inc is a not-for-profit organisation that comprises former Jamaican national basketball team members now living in the United States.