Ericjrfoundation elevates youth basketball with elite camp in Lagos

The Ericjrfoundation Basketball Camp, the annual youth development program founded by Nigerian international basketball star Michael Eric, has completed its latest edition at the Ilupeju Basketball Court in Lagos, marking a shift from grassroots training to elite talent identification.

The foundation was established in memory of Eric’s late father, Joseph Erico, a former Super Eagles goalkeeper and assistant coach. For five years, the camp has served as a hub for training, mentorship, and equipment support for young Nigerian basketball talent, hosted at the same court where Eric developed his own game before launching a professional career spanning more than 10 countries.

This year’s edition departed from previous formats. Rather than open grassroots sessions, organizers ran a targeted “Top 50 Elite” camp for prospects aged 14 to 18, drawing standout athletes from academies and local clubs across Lagos and its surrounding areas. The one-day intensive session focused on tactical execution, advanced fundamentals, and disciplined gameplay, aiming to sharpen technical skills and basketball IQ in the short term while building toward a longer-term goal: producing video scouting packages to help top performers secure international scholarships and professional trials abroad.

The foundation also continued its equipment donation drive, distributing more than 80 pairs of shoes, branded basketballs, and official camp jerseys to participants — part of a broader effort that has delivered over 1,500 pairs of shoes to young Nigerian players over the past five to six years. The supplies were sourced through contributions from Eric’s former professional clubs, teammate networks, and international sponsors across Europe, Asia, and North America.

The camp drew notable support, including an appearance from Philadelphia 76ers forward Adem Bona. Organizers credited Gbenga Jetawo, Chris Nomigo, Simon Evbuomwan, and Adekunle Ogunlana for coordinating the event, along with the coaching staff involved in training the participants.