Dalton Knecht, a recent first‑round pick of the Los Angeles Lakers and the 2023‑24 SEC Player of the Year, is set to open his inaugural youth basketball camp in Knoxville this summer.
A Local Opportunity for Young Athletes
The camp, scheduled for June 13, will take place at the University of Tennessee’s historic Pratt Pavilion and is designed for children in grades four through eight, offering a blend of skill development and competitive play.
Knecht’s college career at Tennessee was nothing short of spectacular; in his lone season with the Volunteers he averaged 21.7 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game, earning both SEC Player of the Year and All‑American honors.
Selected in the 2024 NBA Draft, Knecht joined the Lakers and has already contributed 4.2 points and 1.4 rebounds per game in his second professional season, showing the same work ethic that defined his college rise.
Beyond the numbers, Knecht emphasizes the importance of community involvement, stating that giving back to the Knoxville area is a personal priority and an opportunity to inspire the next generation of players.
Parents and coaches alike are eager to see how Knecht’s blend of skill and mentorship will shape the camp’s curriculum, which promises drills, scrimmages and life‑lesson sessions focused on teamwork and perseverance.