Iturbe returning home to host youth skills camp

Former Riverside and current American University basketball player Julen Iturbe is returning to Greer this summer to host a youth skills camp.

Fresh off a storybook freshman season at American University, former Riverside basketball star Julen Iturbe is back in Greer for the summer.

He’s making the most of his time back home.

The former Warrior is hosting the first-ever Iturbe Skills Camp on May 30-31. His aim? To teach basketball fundamentals, build confidence, and create a positive, encouraging environment for the kids.

“Obviously, I love the sport of basketball,” said Iturbe. “But I really wanted to do something to help out the kids. I think basketball is growing in growing in our area. And I want to keep helping it grow, starting with the youth. That’s something that has always been a passion of mine.”

Iturbe says he remembers being younger and admiring some of the Riverside seniors and older players.

“I know how it was as a kid for me. I loved being around those guys any chance I could, I loved watching their games,” said Iturbe. “I loved that interaction with those more experienced players. That made me think a camp like this would be a great idea.”

During Iturbe’s time at Riverside, he helped lead the Warriors to the 2023-24 upper state championship before falling just short in the state title game. Iturbe was a two-time all-region and all-state player. Coming out of high school, he had 14 Division-I offers. Now, Iturbe is using his impressive resume and prominence to help mentor the next generation of basketball stars.

Iturbe mapped out what kids can expect when attending the first-ever Iturbe Skills Camp.

“The first part of both days will be focused on fundamentals, skill development, things of that nature,” said Iturbe. “But a big focus of the camp will be competition. Whether that’s one-on-one, three-on-three, or five-on-five.

“There will be a good balance between learning the fundamentals, different drills, and then getting some game action and letting the kids play. Most of all, we want to make sure the kids have fun and leave with good memories.”

Rising 4th-6th graders will compete from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. both days, while rising 7th-9th graders will be on the court both days from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The camp takes place at Praise Cathedral in Greer (3375 Brushy Creek Road), a church that Iturbe says he’s “incredibly thankful” for helping set up the ordeal.

To register, visit the link in the bio of the Julen Iturbe Skills Camp Instagram/Facebook page. For questions, email IturbeSkillsCamp@gmail.com.

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