photo by George Mason Basketball Blog

Throughout August, The Jim Couch Foundation sponsored workouts at Fordham University for boys and girls of all ages. Even though the workouts are technically free, the participants paid in sweat and hard work. The summer may be typically reserved for tournaments but it’s also a chance for players to refine skills they have and work on the ones they don’t. Instruction from experienced NYC ballplayers, including NBA Top 50 Greatest Player Nate “Tiny” Archibald, was just too valuable to pass up for a ton of players. Archibald said that he saw a lot of potential at the workouts and that a main reason he wanted to be apart of it was to give back and help the next generation learn.

One player who surely absorbed a lot from the workouts was George Mason junior guard Cam Long. Long led the Patriots in assists, steals and scoring with 11.7 ppg. last season. While visiting family out in Long Island, he heard about the workouts and jumped at the chance to some new techniques and polish his game. After the workouts were over, I decided to get his thoughts on how the event went.

What were some of the positive things you took from this?

The most positive thing was the people we’re learning from. Mr. Couch and Tiny Archibald are guys who’ve seen it all. Being taught by people who’ve been there, helps you see what it takes to get to the next level.

What made you want to come and work out today?

Exposure. Playing in front of big name people and making myself known. It’s cool for people to know you where your from but I’d like to get my name out globally.

Is there anything that you would change about the workouts? Or things they can improve on?

I was surprised with how many high school players were here. I guess it’s late in the summer so the college and pro guys have probably left. Next year, I’ll have to get out here early.

Some people think that our generation lacks the fundamental aspecs of the game. What do you think of that?

Honestly that’s because some people were just never taught it. Some of the kids here have never played in a camp or anything instructional. Some people have to be taken to the side and learn that way because they’ve got so much to learn.

With this whole program being done for free, what does it say about the people associated with running this?

Some people want to help student-athletes and it just show’s how much they care about and love their community and the game. I’m just glad to have an opportunity to be apart of this.