The 2024 National Indigenous Basketball Camp (NIBC) took place from September 26 to 30 at the Seven Chiefs Sportsplex on Tsuut’ina First Nation, southwest of Calgary. Organized by Canada Basketball in partnership with the Aboriginal Sport Circle, this inaugural event aimed to foster high-performance basketball development among Indigenous youth aged 13 to 15. The camp brought together forty-two athletes—two males and two females from each province and territory—and Indigenous coaches from across Canada for an elite training and leadership experience.
Through a selection process, BC was represented by Rylan Heller (Michel Calihoo First Nation), Kionah Williams (Cowichan Tribes), Kenneth Humpherville (Metlakatla) and Benjamin Savea (Peepeekisis Cree Nation). Joining the four players was BC coach Mitra Tshan, who joined six other staff to lead the athletes during the four days.
The camp offered a mix of on-court basketball training led by national team coaches and off-court workshops focusing on leadership and cultural connection. Athletes were evaluated by Canada Basketball’s high-performance staff, potentially opening doors to future national team opportunities. The goal was to increase Indigenous representation in high-performance basketball and provide a platform for young athletes to develop both their athletic and leadership skills. The group was also introduced to Miss Universe Canada, Ashley Callingbull, who spoke with the athletes about her journey through competitions and her career in media.
A special congratulations goes to Benjamin Savea, who was named Gatorade Canada’s MVP at the conclusion of the camp.
This event marks a significant step in promoting Indigenous athletes in Canadian basketball, fostering both athletic development and cultural pride. A special thanks to the Aboriginal Sport Circle and Basketball Canada, along with sponsors Nike N7 and Gatorade for organizing this amazing event.
Photo: Mitra Tshan and Canada Basketball
