Bismarck ND, June 6, 2007 – In conjunction with NBA Cares, the NBA Development League Champion Dakota Wizards announced the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA “Pledge to be a S.T.A.R” Summer Camp presented by McDonald’s, will hit Bismarck - Mandan for a free basketball camp for boys and girls at the Missouri Valley YMCA on June 28, 2007.

Current and former NBA and WNBA stars will host aspiring basketball players, ages 9-13, for day-long camp that will teach basketball fundamentals while stressing the values of the game, sportsmanship, teamwork, dedication, and leading an active, healthy life-style. In addition to Wizards Head Coach Dave Joerger and guard Maurice Baker, Darryl Dawkins, Lafayette “Fat” Lever, Kenny “Sky” Walker, Billy Owens, Otis Birdsong, Jordan Farmar and Nikki McCray are all scheduled to attend.

“Our affiliation with the NBA allows for us to bring events and attractions like this to Bismarck,” said Wizards General Manager Tom Wagganer. “This is a tremendous opportunity for kids from all over North Dakota to learn, not only basketball skills, but skills that will help them the rest of their lives.”

During the camps, Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA coaches will teach the fundamentals of shooting, passing, dribbling and defense, as well as organize competitive games throughout the day. In addition, the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, an NBA Cares partner, will host a workstation stressing the importance of nutrition and daily exercise.

The Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Camps will also provide a parent’s seminar, where NBA and WNBA players will engage parents in a discussion on how sports can contribute positively to the youth development.

“Former NBA and WNBA stars will once again provide a fun and educational day, where Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA members will learn about playing the game the right way and the importance of developing off-court life skills,” said Nadine Glinski, Senior Director Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA.

The camp is only open to the first 250 boys and girls ages 9-13 who register. Additional information and registration forms are available on-line at www.dakotawizards.com or at the following locations:

Missouri Valley YMCA
1608 N Washington St.
Bismarck, ND 58503
(701) 255-1525

Dakota Wizards Front Office
919 S. 7th St. Suite 501
Bismarck ND, 58504
(701) 258-BALL