Training International Basketball Players at Shawnee Heights High School

International Basketball Players Train at Shawnee Heights High School for Summer Program

TECUMSEH, KS. (KSNT) – While school is out and basketball season is still a few months away, the gym at Shawnee Heights High School is buzzing with activity. Kerry Darting, known for his Darting Basketball Academy, is taking his training to a global level this summer.

“We brought kids in from all over the world to train with us for the past three weeks,” Darting shared. “They work out with us and they go play in AAU tournaments on the weekends.”

A group of basketball players ranging from ages 15 to 17 hailing from 12 different countries have made their way to Topeka for this unique training opportunity. Darting’s connections in the local and international basketball community have enabled him to bring together a diverse group of athletes for a three-week intensive program.

The players, coming from countries such as Slovenia, Montenegro, and Serbia, are getting a taste of American basketball. They have noted the differences in style and pace of play compared to what they are accustomed to in their home countries.

“In Europe, only point guards and shooting guards can shoot, but in America, everyone can shoot,” Timon Persin from Slovenia remarked.

Stefan Lazic from Serbia expressed, “I feel like I’ve improved since I came here, a lot, and I’ve gotten to work a lot on what I do best.”

Dusan Kovacevic, a former collegiate player for Davidson and basketball professional, helped organize the training session with Darting. The goal is to give these players exposure to college scouts and coaches, as well as to provide local athletes with a chance to showcase their skills on a global platform.

“These kids dream of playing in the U.S. Having kids come together from all over the world, seeing them become best friends in just a couple of days, that’s something they’re going to remember for their whole lives,” Kovacevic emphasized.

The combination of local and international talent training together is a unique opportunity for these young athletes to elevate their skills and potentially pursue their dreams of playing basketball at the next level.