Watson takes part in CF hoops camp

CLARK FORK - The University of Idaho's all-time leading rebounder dribbles right, describing to a girl who's quite literally two-feet shorter than he is the proper defensive technique, when she abruptly knocks the ball out of his hands for a steal.

“See, that's good defense,” jokes camp coach Deon Watson amid a chorus of laughter from the other campers.

It was all part of the first day of the Fundamental Focus Basketball Camp Friday at Clark Fork High School. Watson, a former All-Big Sky player for Idaho in the early '90s and a 10-year veteran of pro basketball in Europe, and former Idaho Vandals assistant coach Marcel Colbert brought their new camp to Clark Fork for the first time.

“Fundamentals, that's what we focus on,” explains Watson, who is also second all-time for Idaho in both games played and blocked shots. “It's the same things I learned when I played.”

Watson's traveling camp is just getting started in North Idaho. He recently held one in Mullan, and is hoping to hold many more as word of professional basketball coaching spreads.

Melvin Speelmon, one of Clark Fork's assistant basketball coaches, calls the two-day camp a unique chance for his players to receive expert instruction of the finer points of hoops.

“I love it, it's good for the community,” says Speelmon. “A pro athlete and an ex-college coach willing to come out to Clark Fork. I'm excited.”

The two day camp, which also includes some Clark Fork coaches, concludes today.