by Kenneth Mathews , Times-Picayune

Honorary clinic coach and Hornets' starting forward Rasual Butler addressed the group of 75 young athletes, held a question-and-answer session, and moved among small drill groups to interact and offer individual instruction. Mascot Hugo the Hornet was on hand to cheer on the participants and lead them in stretching exercises.

Xavier University of New Orleans head Basketball coach Dannton Jackson began the clinic with a motivational speech and led participants through the series of drills and competitions. He was assisted by a team of 10 counselors, all athletes from Louisiana universities.

Mandeville resident Brennan Baudot, a regular volunteer at Hornets sponsored events in the metro area, assisted with timekeeping and transitions between drills. A season ticket holder in the third row of the " Hornets' Nest," Baudot counts himself as one of the team's biggest fans.

"I used to be a big Chicago Bulls fan," Baudot said. "But all that stopped when the Hornets moved here."

Generating enthusiasm for the Hornets is one goal of the summer clinics. Hornets Corporate Communications Manager and Game Night emcee Brittany Cranston said the mission is far greater, though.

"This annual series of clinics allows us to reach out to young fans across the entire state of Louisiana and provide a fun-filled atmosphere," Cranston said. "Our entire Hornets family is dedicated to building a legacy in our community, and our Summer Hoops clinics allow us to leave a positive impact on hundreds of young lives."

Promotions and Events Coordinator Eddie Johnson stressed the importance of life skills and teamwork in the clinic.

"We try to incorporate game-night entertainment into each clinic, so even if the child isn't interested in Basketball, they get to experience what Hornets Basketball is all about," Johnson said.

Like many participants, Davis Heebe likely will remember the experience for a long time.

"I love it! They taught me how to pass and even run better," Heebe said.

His favorite part was the message of "Passion, Purpose and Pride," delivered by Jackson to begin the clinic.

Lisa Finley watched her son, 7-year-old Brennan, from the bleachers.

"It is so nice that the Hornets give back to the community this way," Finley said. "And the opportunity to meet Rasual Butler is a bonus."

Butler expressed his motivation for helping with the clinics.

"These clinics allow me to share my knowledge and experience about life and Basketball, and it's just one more way I can help encourage each camper to achieve success on and off the court and live a healthy lifestyle," he said.

Franco's Programs and Events Director Julie Hudson said the clinic is so popular, that registration for spaces fills up quickly.

"We are always excited to host this yearly event and love providing safe and fun activities for the kids in our community," Hudson said. "Summer Hoops has always been one of the kids'favorite activities here and is always sold out early."

The Hornets will continue offering public clinics at locations throughout Louisiana through July 27. Pre-registration and a registration fee of $10 will apply to remaining clinics and includes three hours of instruction and a T-shirt. As of June 23, spaces were still available in some clinics. For more information call 504.593.4991 or email summerhoops@Hornets.com

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