Former Purdue University guard Dakota Mathias returned to his hometown of Elida, Ohio, this week to host the ninth edition of his annual youth basketball camp at the Elida Fieldhouse.
The two‑day clinic welcomed roughly 200 campers ranging from kindergarten through eighth grade, who spent their time honing footwork, dribbling, passing and shooting under the guidance of the former Boilermaker and several professional players.
A community‑building effort on the court
Mathias, who concluded his college career last season, emphasized the importance of giving back to the region that supported his rise, stating that the camp is as much about character development as it is about basketball fundamentals.
Local parents and coaches praised the event for providing a positive, structured environment for young athletes, while the presence of pro‑level instructors added an extra layer of inspiration.
The camp’s organizers highlighted the role of such initiatives in nurturing the next generation of basketball talent and reinforcing Elida’s strong sports culture.