A Legacy Reborn: Where Legends are Forged
The ABCD Camp was more than just a summer basketball event; it was the ultimate proving ground for high school phenoms for 22 years. Founded in 1984 by Sonny Vaccaro, it became synonymous with identifying top-tier talent. Think of Kobe Bryant earning MVP honors in 1995, or a 16-year-old LeBron James cementing his status as the nation's best prospect in 2001 with a legendary game-winner against Lenny Cooke – an event that birthed his “The Chosen One” nickname.
Perhaps no story embodies the camp’s power more than Tracy McGrady’s own meteoric rise. In 1996, an unknown McGrady received the very last invite from Vaccaro. He then proceeded to completely dominate, claiming MVP honors and skyrocketing from obscurity to the No. 1-ranked player in the country. He would go on to be the No. 9 pick in the 1997 NBA Draft and play 15 years in the league.
“I still remember my time as a camper and what it did for my career,” McGrady shared, highlighting the camp’s profound impact. “It was the best of the best, and that brought out everything in me. I’m just happy to be back in the gym and give these kids the same opportunity I had. This is a legendary camp, and I’m glad to be a part of it, and it doesn’t get better than this.”
The Next Generation Takes Center Stage
For the first time since 2006, the ABCD Camp buzzed with energy, attracting 50 of the nation's most promising high school players to Phoenix. Over three intense days, these young athletes showcased their skills under the watchful eyes of NBA scouts and executives representing all 30 teams.
Among the standout talents were a few familiar names, with NBA legacy kids making their mark. Pierre Rondo, son of four-time NBA All-Star Rajon Rondo, showed off his potential while his proud dad captured every moment on his phone. RJ Evans, son of former NBA forward Reggie Evans, emerged as one of the top players in the 2029 high school class and a top performer at the camp, building on a strong AAU season with Adidas 3SSB.
“I’ve heard the stories of this camp growing up, and it’s just cool to come out here and be included in the first one back in 20 years,” Evans said, relishing the opportunity. “I’m one of the younger guys here, so I just want to go out and cook and show that I’m one of the best players in the country.”
NBA Mentorship: Passing the Torch
A crucial element of the revived camp was the presence of current NBA assistant coaches leading drills and games, alongside a host of active NBA players offering invaluable mentorship. This unique structure provided unparalleled insight for the aspiring pros.
Darryn Peterson, the No. 2 pick in the recent NBA Draft, spent two days observing, making a point to watch Demarcus Henry, the No. 3 player in the incoming senior class, during scrimmages. “He’s cold,” Peterson praised of Henry, who tallied 15 points and 6 rebounds. “The game slows down for him; he’s patient, he’s a good player.”
Mikel Brown Jr., the No. 6 overall pick to the Brooklyn Nets, took on a coaching role, guiding his younger brother, Zach Brown, an incoming freshman. “It’s just a privilege to be here and help the next group of players coming up,” Brown Jr. reflected.
“I was just a camper in this same gym two years ago for Dame’s [Lillard] camp, so I know what any sort of advice or anything I can give will help these guys. It’s crazy just being here coaching my little bro too. I’m glad they brought this back.”
Further emphasizing the commitment to development, Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. and 76ers guard VJ Edgecombe also lent their expertise, coaching on the sidelines and participating in drills. “Just having some of the young NBA talent in the building is so crucial for these young kids,” McGrady stressed.
“They’re really dialed in on how they see the game and approach different sets and read things. It’s something I didn’t really have coming up, and it’s just cool to see how everything has come together on every level.”
Crowned a New Star: Lewis Uvwo Shines Bright
The intensity of the competition was palpable, with Sonny Vaccaro and his wife, Pam, watching every game from the stands. The week's ultimate prize, the camp MVP award, went to Lewis Uvwo, a dominant 6-foot-10 center. His outstanding performances propelled him from being ranked in the 90s nationally to the No. 6 player in his class.
Uvwo capped off his remarkable week with a stellar performance in the championship game, finishing with 16 points, 8 rebounds, 3 blocks, 3 assists, and 2 steals. The display completed a breakthrough summer for the rising star. "Just being here and competing against these guys and learning from the NBA players has been amazing," Uvwo said.
Meeting Sonny Vaccaro was another unforgettable moment for Uvwo. "Sonny Vaccaro is a legend and just meeting him and being able to talk to him was something I’ll never forget. The amount of basketball he’s seen and what he’s done for the game is crazy."
Even Lenny Cooke, one of the camp's most memorable alumni, was quietly watching from the stands as the next generation took center stage. With elite prospects, legendary basketball figures, and breakout performances, the ABCD Camp has firmly re-established itself as a premier proving ground for future NBA stars.
