NBA star Josh Powell helps keeps dreams alive for budding basketballers in Blacktown

SYDNEY Kings’ newest signing and two-time NBA champion Josh Powell is mentoring budding basketballers from Blacktown West Basketball Association.

Josh Powell of the Kings is inspiring young players in Blacktown. Powell grabs a rebound during the round five NBL match between the Sydney Kings and the Cairns Taipans. Photo: Jason McCawley/Getty Images

• Coach on call at Vinnies for tips on health goals
• Cheerleaders at top for second year running
• Two Blacktown boys picked for Wanderers Youth League

SYDNEY Kings’ newest signing and two-time NBA champion Josh Powell is mentoring budding basketballers from Blacktown West Basketball Association.

The South Carolina native says he is passionate about helping kids of all backgrounds to achieve their dreams.

“A lot of times kids have questions and when they don’t feel comfortable talking about it at home, they open up to you,” Powell, 33, said.

“I want to be heavily involved in things like that because those are the things that matter.

“Even if you are not a sports fan, it’s important to have someone to spend time with you and talk to you, not necessarily about the game but about life.”

Sydney Kings’ Josh Powell with Marc Dela Cruz and Connor Ross.

The power forward won two NBA Championships with the Los Angeles Lakers and has also spent time with the Dallas Mavericks, Indiana Pacers, Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Clippers, Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets.

But long before Powell starred on the NBA stage, he dealt with challenges at school and home.

He says his small support circle of his family and sports coaches kept him on the right path.

“The amount of kids that have reached out to me on social media, it’s great having that relationship,” he said. “They ask me about my day, and ask if I can give them some advice. I’m just trying to do my part.”

Powell will be at the Blacktown West Basketball Association’s junior games on December 2 and is gearing up for the Kings’ home game against board leaders Perth Wildcats on Saturday.