Moses Moody, a professional basketball player for the Golden State Warriors, recently had a unique and impactful experience coaching at the Basketball Without Borders Africa camp in South Africa. Despite not being on the court playing, Moody found immense joy and pride in coaching his team, which ended up as the No. 1 seed in the championship game. While they fell short of winning the title, Moody understood that the impact he made on the young players was far more significant than the final score.
The opportunity to coach at the camp came unexpectedly when Moody’s agent, Rich Paul, offered him the chance to travel to Africa. Initially, Moody didn’t fully grasp the impact he could have on the kids at the camp, but once he arrived, he realized the importance of instilling life lessons and basketball skills in the young campers. Moody’s message to his players emphasized seizing the opportunity presented to them and making connections both on and off the court.
The Basketball Without Borders Africa camp featured 60 campers from 24 African countries, with NBA and FIBA scouts in attendance. The camp focused on skills development and provided a platform for young talents to showcase their abilities. Moody, along with other NBA players and coaches, coached the campers and guided them through drills, workouts, and games. Awards were given to outstanding players, highlighting their achievements during the camp.
Beyond the basketball court, Moody and his family immersed themselves in the culture and experiences of Africa. They visited Nelson Mandela’s house, went on a safari, and participated in various cultural activities. Moody’s family also had the opportunity to explore different aspects of African life, gaining a deeper understanding of the local culture and traditions.
Moody’s involvement in community initiatives extends beyond his time in Africa. In his hometown of Little Rock, Arkansas, Moody has organized events like „A Night With Moses Moody“ and the Little Rock Basketball Camp to give back to the community. Inspired by NBA veteran Joe Johnson, who organized a tournament that impacted his life as a child, Moody aims to create similar opportunities for the youth in his community.
One of Moody’s proudest achievements is the addition of a youth summit to his Motivate One summer series. The summit exposed kids to various trades and professions related to sports, broadening their horizons and providing them with valuable insights into different career paths. Moody believes in using his platform to inspire and educate the youth, both in Little Rock and beyond.
Moody’s experience at the Basketball Without Borders Africa camp has deepened his understanding of the impact basketball can have on individuals and communities. He recognizes the power of the sport as a tool for personal growth and social change, and he is committed to using his influence to make a positive difference in the world. As Moody continues his basketball career with the Warriors, his dedication to community engagement and social impact remains unwavering.