Ex-pro basketballer returns to support Jersey's next gen

Wednesday 30 October 2024

Former professional basketball player Kristaps Valters has returned to Jersey to coach some of the island's budding talent.

This week, 10 to 18-year-olds will receive professional training from the experienced player whose career spanned seasons in Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, as well as the NBA alongside basketball icon LeBron James.

Back with his coaching team from the renowned Kristaps Valters Basketball Academy in Latvia, he is returning to Jersey for the third time to assist in developing some of the island's budding players.

Taking place at Beaulieu's new sports facilities, 45 students and Jersey Basketball Association members are taking part.

Pictured: The JBBA youth training camp is taking place at Beaulieu.

Paul Milbank, President of the JBBA, said: "We’re excited to welcome Kristaps and his coaching team back to Jersey once again. Events like these are pivotal for the advancement of basketball in our island community.

"We're not only introducing different styles and perspectives but also fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the sport."

Kristaps emphasised his holistic approach to coaching during the camp, adding: "While technical skills are crucial, I also aim to instil values of teamwork and sportsmanship, guiding young athletes to not only excel on the court but also in life."

Pictured: Kristaps wants to instill teamwork and sportsmanship in the players.

Sponsored by Altair, the camp runs until Friday 1 November.

John Small, Innovation Delivery Lead at the firm, said his team were "delighted to be able to support the next generation of Jersey’s Basketball Association in this way, contributing to the development of the next generation of athletes and expanding the reach of island basketball".