Community Impact
CareSource Bayou Health and basketball legend Hakeem Olajuwon host free youth basketball camp
April 3rd, 2023 | 3 min read
Houston basketball legend Hakeem Olajuwon recently hosted a free youth basketball camp for over 120 kids in grades 3-6. The CareSource Bayou Health Hakeem Olajuwon Impact Camp, held on April 1 at the University of Houston-Campus Recreation & Wellness Center, offered young athletes the opportunity to learn fundamental basketball skills from the legendary player himself.
CareSource Bayou Health Hakeem Olajuwon Impact Camp for 120 kids in grades 3-6 held Saturday at @UHouston pic.twitter.com/JutZ3fiCmu
— Joseph Duarte (@Joseph_Duarte) April 1, 2023
Throughout the day, campers experienced various stations specializing in the fundamental skills of basketball and game play. In addition to the chance to interact with Olajuwon, each camper received a camp t-shirt, souvenir autograph, and team photo with the Hall of Famer.
“Anytime I can share my love of basketball with future generations, it’s a win. It’s extra special to do it at my alma mater during the college tournament weekend,” Olajuwon said.
Guests included University of Houston’s Jarace Walker and Jamal Shead, plus Kansas State’s Markquis Nowell.
The event was made possible through CareSource Bayou Health's community investment, as the organization partnered with local organizations to provide the incredible opportunity to youth in the Houston area.
"CareSource Bayou Health is proud to support the health and wellness of young Texans,” said Jason Neerman, spokesperson for CareSource Bayou Health “This camp is just one more way we can give kids an opportunity to engage in physical activity and education while meeting a local hero and role model."
"This free basketball camp for underserved youth is an excellent way to engage kids in healthy activities that promote fitness, self-esteem and fun! This is part of our overall outreach efforts to keep communities healthy regardless of ability to pay,” said Legacy Community Health’s CEO Dr. Robert “Bobby” Hilliard, Jr.
The impact of the free camp will likely continue to be felt by participants long after the final buzzer sounded on April 1.
CareSource Bayou Health is a joint venture between CareSource and Legacy Community Health combining both organization's mission-driven approaches for a lasting difference in the health of members and communities. Supported by CareSource’s 30+ years of managed health plan experience and Legacy’s 40+ years of serving the community with a mission to drive healthy change. CareSource Bayou Health intends to offer Texas Medicaid managed care recipients comprehensive health coverage and provide access to the best physicians and delivering compassion and care.