Nearly 500 South Florida boys and girls had a blast while learning the X’s and O’s of basketball at HEAT Camp this summer. Between playing alongside some of their favorite HEAT players and learning tips from the pros themselves, getting autographs and pictures, improving their game and making new friends, the campers couldn’t stop raving about their HEAT Camp experience.

“It’s so cool to be at this camp, kind of a privilege,” said 11-year-old camper Chase Book from Plantation. “They teach you so many skills, and the best part is we get to meet HEAT players.”

Throughout five weeks of HEAT camp divided between Dade and Broward locations, HEAT players Caron Butler, Rasual Butler, Malik Allen, Sean Lampley, Jerome Beasley (the HEAT’s second-round 2003 draft pick) and recently signed Udonis Haslem (a Miami native and University of Florida standout) came out to meet and greet with the campers, and of course, shoot some hoops.

“I met Caron Butler and it was the highlight of my life because he’s the coolest player I’ve ever known,” said Book.

After HEAT forward Rasual Butler lent his HEAT hat to 6-year-old Aaron Franco from Golden Beach, the young camper was teeming with excitement.

“It was totally awesome meeting Rasual,” said Franco. “He gave me his hat, and it makes me feel like I’m a basketball player too.”

Campers at the AmericanAirlines Arena site even had the chance to play on the actual HEAT court, shoot around in the HEAT’s practice facility and tour the HEAT’s front offices.

Under the leadership of HEAT Camp Director Tony Fiorentino – a past HEAT Assistant Coach and Scouting Coordinator, as well as an Assistant Coach with the Miami SOL for three years – Tony and his band of coaches offered the kids quality instruction with personal attention, guest speakers, contests, prizes and even lunch.

Kids are already working on improving their game, getting ready to come back to HEAT Camp next summer!