AN Australian basketball icon spent time on Wednesday passing on tips to the next generation of players.
Two-time National Basketball League premiership player, Lanard Copeland and Sydney Kings managing director, Jeff Van Groningen ran two clinics at the Kerang Amateur Basketball Association stadium.
The sessions, organised through Kerang Christian College and the local basketball association, enabled students from the district from grade five to year 12 to learn more about the game.
“These clinics mean everything for us. This is where the passion for the sports starts,” Van Groningen said.
Copland, who developed a 14-year career with the Melbourne Tigers, Brisbane Bullets and Adelaide 36ers after moving to the country from the United States, urged all in attendance to spend their time playing wisely.
Passing on tips gained during his stint with National Basketball Association teams the Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Clippers before moving to Australia, the Sydney Kings assistant coach focused on shooting and defensive manoeuvres during each of the 90-minute sessions.
“These clinics are very important. Kids like to receive this level of coaching, but the opportunities are limited as clinics usually occur closer to Melbourne or at Bendigo,” Copeland said.
