Since being drafted by the Kings in late June, Skal Labissiere has made an impact on the court for Sacramento. He was the team’s most consistent player at Summer League, averaging 11 points, 5.8 rebounds and one block in five games.
That being said, it’s the impact he’s making off the court that brings to light the type of person Skal really is.
Along with Kings legend Doug Christie, the rookie traveled over 150 miles to attend the California Endowment's Sons and Brothers Camp in Portola, California. The pair spoke to a group of about 100 kids and took questions from the crowd.
Labissiere delved into his childhood growing up in Haiti and the experience of going through the massive earthquake in 2010 that left him unable to walk for weeks. Skal also told the campers “not to listen to critics” and to always maintain belief in yourself.
After the forum, campers joined Skal and Doug on the basketball court, where the duo displayed several basic basketball drills. He also played 3-on-3 with the campers.
“It was super fun. We had some funny kids here and it was a great experience trying to make an impact in some people’s lives,” said Skal. “I enjoyed the whole experience.”
The day after attending the Sons and Brothers Camp, No. 3 flew to South Dakota to join Kings head coach Dave Joerger at a Jr. NBA Camp at Red Cloud Indian School. He participated in drills alongside his coach and signed autographs for the campers.
Participating in community events and making a mark on other people’s lives has always been important to Skal. He was heavily involved in the Lexington community while attending school at the University of Kentucky. The day after arriving in Sacramento, Skal joined fellow rookies Georgios Papagiannis and Isaiah Cousins in surprising Jr. Kings campers.
Check out the video below:
Not only is the Haitian big man ready to have a positive effect on the hardwood, but in the local community as well.
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