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NBA star Jalen Brunson returns to Stevenson for sports camp

Seventy-five kids with a passion for basketball got the experience of a lifetime: a brush with an NBA star and the all-time leading scorer in Stevenson High School basketball history.

For the fourth time, Jalen Brunson returned to his alma mater to run a basketball skills camp, with all proceeds benefiting the Stevenson Foundation.

Brunson, who recently signed a contract with the New York Knicks as a free agent, operated the four-day, coed camp for sixth to eighth graders alongside current and former Stevenson basketball players.

Each day of the camp, which ran from July 11-14, focused on different basketball fundamentals, as well as teamwork, communication and leadership.

"It's been awesome to be back on the Stevenson campus again. I look forward to camp every summer because this is where I learned valuable lessons in hard work and resilience alongside teammates, coaches and friends," Brunson said.

"It's a privilege to work with these talented and fun young athletes, who I hope grow more confident in their basketball skills, as well as a sense of teamwork and leadership."

Proceeds from camp registration will support vital Stevenson Foundation scholarships and programs, including several annual scholarships named in his honor and the foundation's One Family and Stevenson to College programs.

"I have had the privilege of watching Jalen grow as an athlete and young adult, and this sports camp experience really epitomizes all the leadership qualities and values that he possesses," Stevenson High School basketball coach and teacher Pat Ambrose said.

"Ever since his Stevenson days, a strong work ethic and commitment to personal improvement have been central to his growth. It has been inspiring to see him share those important messages and his own personal stories through this camp experience for young kids."

Brunson began his NBA career with the Dallas Mavericks in 2018. In addition to his professional career, Brunson has a storied legacy in high school and college basketball.

Stevenson's all-time leading scorer, Brunson led the Patriots to their first boys basketball state championship in 2015 and was subsequently named Illinois Mr. Basketball. He went on to become a two-time national champion at Villanova and was named NCAA Player of the Year in 2018.

"Jalen's support could not have come at a more crucial time for our students," Stevenson Foundation Executive Director Susan Schultze said.

"His generosity and partnership speak to what we have long known about him, that a spirit of giving and a sense of community can make a tremendous difference in the lives of our students."

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Jalen Brunson teaches basketball skills to students at Stevenson High School. This is the fourth time Brunson has returned to his alma mater to lead a basketball skills camp. Courtesy of Stevenson High School District 125
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