SPOKANE, Wash. — J.R. Camel doesn’t let age slow him down. The 51-year-old Hoopfest player was inducted into the Hooptown Hall of Fame on Wednesday.
Camel has played in at least 20 Hoopfests. If he had his way, he would play in 20 more.
His first Hoopfest made a big impression. Crowds gathered to watch his game.
“The fans are right next to the court, it meant a lot to me, and I knew I was going to be back,” Camel said.
Camel feels responsible for representing his community on the court.
“It makes me have to play harder and try to represent the Native community and the people in Montana that way. For people who’ve never seen me play before, I just want to give them a show,” Camel said.
After playing for the Montana Grizzlies basketball team, Camel coached kids. Now those players have grown up to become his teammates.
“I remember when he was that small, and here I am playing with him,” Camel said.
Staying healthy and being there for his six children keeps Camel going.
“You’re not guaranteed moments, so like these moments out here and to make it here is great,” Camel said.
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