The Ole Miss men's basketball team left Nashville on a three‑hour flight, landing in San Juan ready to take part in the Arroyo Puerto Rico Classic, a multi‑day event that blends competition with cultural exchange.
A Week of Competition and Community
On August 4 and 5 the Rebels faced off against Puerto Rican Select Teams, using the matches as a warm‑up for the upcoming season while testing new rotations on the island's hardwood.
Beyond the arena, the squad spent a morning at La Perla, where they ran a youth clinic that combined basketball drills with mentorship, and several staff members volunteered alongside local coaches.
The itinerary also featured a guided food and culture tour of Old San Juan, allowing the players to sample regional cuisine and learn about the city's historic architecture.
A highlight of the trip was a catamaran excursion to Icacos Island, where turquoise waters and white‑sand beaches provided a stark contrast to the intensity of the games.
Practice sessions at the JUMP Sports Development Camp in San Juan gave the team a chance to fine‑tune strategies under the guidance of Complete Sports Management, a partner that helped coordinate the logistics.
Leadership on the Sidelines
Head coach Chris Beard, who had previously led the Rebels to a deep run in the NCAA tournament, used the trip to reinforce team chemistry and to discuss the upcoming season with players and staff.
The week concluded with a sense of camaraderie that extended beyond the court, as the players reflected on how the island's rhythm would influence their approach to the next slate of games.