Former NBA player Erick Dampier Sr. and his son, Erick Dampier Jr., joined TrueCare to host a free basketball camp for Jackson-area children, helping expand access to youth sports and mentorship in Mississippi.
Held at the Hangar Dome at Millsaps College, the basketball camp welcomed more than 100 students in grades one through eight for an afternoon of physical activity, skill development, and mentorship.
Led by Dampier Sr. and Dampier Jr., the camp introduced participants to basketball fundamentals while emphasizing teamwork, confidence, discipline, and other life skills in a supportive environment.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to be active, build confidence, and discover what they can accomplish,” said Ashley Thompson, CEO of TrueCare. “At TrueCare, we recognize that health extends beyond the doctor’s office. By creating opportunities for children to participate in sports, develop relationships, and learn from positive role models, we’re investing in their overall well-being and helping build healthier communities across Mississippi.”
Dampier Sr. played 16 seasons in the NBA, including time with the Golden State Warriors, Dallas Mavericks, Miami Heat, and Cleveland Cavaliers. The former Mississippi State University standout was a first-round NBA draft pick in 1996 and helped the Mavericks reach the NBA Finals in 2006.
Dampier Jr. is a standout center for Madison-Ridgeland Academy and is following in his father’s footsteps. Together, the father-son duo shared their knowledge of the game and encouraged campers to apply the lessons learned on the court to their lives beyond basketball.
“It was great to be here, have fun with the kids, and see their excitement for the game,” said Dampier Sr. “It is important for kids to stay active and build healthy habits, and sports like basketball are a great way to keep them moving while having fun.”
Physical activity plays a critical role in children’s health and development, yet many children do not get the recommended amount of daily exercise. TrueCare Impact Camps help address barriers to participation by providing children with access to sports, physical activity, and positive mentorship.
Through partnerships with local schools, community centers, and nonprofit organizations, TrueCare works to connect children who may face financial or other barriers to recreational opportunities with programs that support their physical, social, and emotional well-being.
The camp reflects TrueCare’s broader commitment to addressing the factors that influence health beyond clinical care and creating opportunities for Mississippi children and families to thrive.