Jr. NBA: Tejan Rugette selected for prestigious UAE training camp

Young star Tejan Rugette has been invited to attend another prestigious training camp as part of the Jr. NBA programme.

Taking place in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the camp will bring together some of the top prospects from across the world.

Rugette earned the place through being selected as one of the top 10 players in attendance at the recent Jr NBA. Europe and Middle East camp in Italy last May.

The young guard will also be able to watch the the Atlanta Hawks and the Milwaukee Bucks as they play two pre-season games at the Etihad Arena, Yas Island, as part of the trip.

Rugette is a rising star within the game, collecting U14 MVP honours at this season's Jnr. NBL Final Fours in Manchester. He led Richmond to a 68-60 win over Manchester Magic in the final, enjoying an eye-catching 38.5PPG and 13.5RPG across the two days.

He's also appeared on the Team England U15 radar, being selected to attend national team activity this past April, translating that success into a spot in GB's 18 player shortlist for a potential spot at the upcoming U16 European Championships. 

The Richmond Knights' product clearly has a bright future ahead of him, and the honour of heading to Abu Dhabi is just the latest step along a path that could go right to the very top of the game.

The Jr. NBA League was created for 11-13 year olds (Year 7 and Year 8) boys and girls in secondary schools to participate in basketball and represent 1 of the 30 NBA teams. The League is organised and operated by Basketball England in partnership with the NBA. 

The objective of the league is to leverage the excitement of the NBA to inspire more children to participate in basketball through a fun and positive experience with the sport. The league also aims to promote NBA values such as sportsmanship, teamwork, attitude, respect and healthy living through league games and other activities and events.

From being the first Jr. NBA league globally, 21 leagues now span all regions in England, including opportunities for boys and girls to play in leagues at years 7 and 8 in the East of England, East Midlands, North-West, Yorkshire, London, South East, South West and the West Midlands and North East. There is also a Girls only leagues for years 7 and 8 in the North West and London.

During the 2021/22 season there are 630 schools and over 10,000 children involved - making it the largest Jr. NBA league in the world.

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