A Camp With a Purpose
Gary Harris, a 2012 Indiana Mr. Basketball award‑winner and veteran NBA guard, opened the second edition of his Health, Hoops & Happiness camp this week, inviting some of the state’s most promising high school prospects to a weekend of skill work and life lessons. At 31, Harris is entering his 13th NBA season and is the most experienced player on the Detroit Pistons roster, a team that finished the previous campaign with a 60‑22 record and the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference.
The camp gathered a standout group of 2028 recruits, including Amarian Leggett, Chandon Gilbert and Varschon Clark, who each received hands‑on training from Harris while absorbing his journey from high school stardom to the professional ranks. Participants also included Jaece Vogt, Don Bowling III, D.J. Nash, Jasir Rogers, Eron McDuffey, Tim Smith and others who shared the court with the former Mr. Basketball honoree.
Harris reflected on his path through the Denver Nuggets, Orlando Magic and a trade to the Milwaukee Bucks before landing in Detroit, a move that placed him among the league’s most seasoned players. He spoke candidly about edging out Yogi Ferrell for the 2012 Indiana Mr. Basketball title and how that early competition shaped his work ethic.
Beyond basketball drills, Harris emphasized habits, mental health and perseverance, urging the youngsters to view the court as a laboratory for life skills that extend far beyond the final buzzer. He highlighted his hope to reconnect with Indiana basketball and stay involved in his hometown of Fishers, where he grew up.
A New Chapter for Indiana Basketball
The event also served as a reunion for former Mr. Basketball winners such as Zak Irvin, Trey Lyles and Kyle Guy, who joined Harris in sharing their own pathways and encouraging the next wave of talent. Harris said he envisions the camp sparking a lasting dialogue about player development in the state and inspiring more former pros to give back to the communities that shaped them.