So much talent is on the court for the Cleveland Cavs, but could the next Cavalier be hitting a different gym in northeast Ohio?
We're taking you inside NEO Youth Elite Basketball where an event is gaining attention from top players from across the country.
Sonny Johnson Jr. Garfield Heights will be at the 3rd Annual NEO Youth Elite event at the end of June.
"It's great because I get to play against a lot of new people and they're better than me, so when I play against them they get me better,” he told us.
Hundreds of younger players from all over the United States will show off their talents. "Basketball means a lot because it's in my genes,” said Sonny, Jr.
He's not kidding. His dad, Sonny Johnson, Sr. is a former Mister Basketball in Ohio. He’s also the founder of NEO Youth Elite.
“I think we have a lot of respect out there,” said Sonny, Sr. “It's very important that we all capitalize on it...not just the Cavaliers, but our area, our community."
The 2-day showcase for 3rd through 11th graders has players talking. "It's very intense and it's very fun,” said Garfield Heights basketball player Donovan Forte.
All the hours on the court, all the workouts, and all the games: the kids know it can all boil down to this big shot to be seen in the CLE.
"A few college coaches will come in and more importantly the college reporters, guys that do articles and write-ups on kids that's sent out...email blasts to colleges,” said Sonny, Sr. also told us reporters from Ball Is Life, Hoop Diamonds and ESPN will be at the camp covering players like YouTube sensation Julian Newman
It will be a big event in Sonny, Jr.'s young hoop life. "If media put my name out there, they get videos on me,” said Sonny, Jr. “A lot of people will see my videos and they want to know who I am.”
The NEO Youth Elite National Basketball Showcase happens at Garfield Heights High School June 24th through the 25th. Here’s more info on times and fees.
