JAMES MASKER, WALLY'S HALL OF FAME CAMP DRAWS BIG NUMBERS IN FIRST YEAR (24 PHOTOS) (2024-08-14)

Southern Tier Sports Report
ELMIRA — When Wally Bailey put together the idea to host a basketball camp he was hoping for a solid turnout, but he never imagined over 120 kids taking to the courts at Brand Park this week.

The first James Masker Basketball Camp presented by Wally’s Hall of Fame drew big numbers in honor of someone special to Bailey.

“Always wanted to run a camp in the past,” Bailey said. “The passing of our brother, great friend, James Masker, we wanted to do something big. We wanted to recognize him. We wanted to do it for the kids. It’s all about the kids and as you can see, we had over 120 registered for this.”

The turnout has been special.

“Honestly, I couldn’t believe how the total went crazy,” Bailey said. “I thought it was going to be 75-80, 123 has been unbelievable.”

And, Mother Nature cooperated for a perfect week outside for the camp, which was for kids grades first through ninth.

“Three great days, we’ll take it,” Dennis Epperson said.

“Two months of 90s and humidity until now,” Bailey said.

Watching the reactions of the kids was a lot of fun for all involved.

“I have no voice left, it’s been so much fun, this has been tremendous,” Bailey said.

And, while this week was a success, it’s not over. Next week the girls take the court. And, in the future the tournament will be right back at Brand Park.

“Staying right here,” Bailey said. “Next week we have the girls camp, can’t wait, it’s going to be exciting. We will do this every year, outside, old school style, same week.”

For Bailey and Epperson the camp was a perfect tribute to Masker.

“He’s smiling right now,” Bailey said. “We did it for him.”
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PHOTOS BY BRIAN FEES

PHOTO GALLERY FROM WEDNESDAY’S SCRIMMAGES:


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