A Camp of Hope in Shiprock
More than a hundred children gathered in Shiprock for a week‑long basketball camp that combined drills with storytelling. The event was organized by Analyss Benally, a former professional player who once dominated European courts, and Andre Ingram, a former Lakers guard whose NBA debut drew national attention. Both arrived with a shared goal: to give rural youth a chance to experience the thrill of the game while learning values that extend far beyond the hardwood.
Benally, who also made her acting debut in the 2024 Netflix sports drama "Rez Ball," brings a unique blend of athletic and artistic experience. Her induction into the North American Indigenous Athletics Hall of Fame reflects a career built on excellence and cultural pride. She has previously hosted skills camps across the Navajo Nation, using each session to showcase role models who look like the kids she teaches.
Fundamentals First
Ingram emphasized that mastery of basic techniques precedes any attempt at flashy moves. He recounted his own college years at American University, where he finished among the top five scorers in school history, and his 19‑point performance in his Lakers debut. "You can’t build a house on a shaky foundation," he told the campers, urging them to perfect passing, footwork and shooting before chasing highlight‑reel plays.
The clinic also addressed the practical hurdles faced by young athletes from remote communities. Ingram spoke openly about the difficulty of attracting college scouts when geographic isolation limits exposure. By stressing discipline and fundamentals, he hopes to create a clearer pathway for participants to be noticed by recruiters and educators.
A Path Forward
The impact of the Shiprock camp will ripple outward as Benally and Ingram plan the next session of ABFive’s basketball series. The upcoming camp in Phoenix, scheduled to begin on July 17, will continue the mission of offering rural youth access to high‑level instruction, mentorship and the confidence that comes from playing the sport they love.