BRYANT, Ark. – 15-year-old Gia Campbell from Bryant is back from her experience representing the United States at the Spain Cup Tour basketball tournament, and she’s returned with a few more trophies to add to her collection.
Gia Campbell earned the title “Most Valuable Player” during her trip overseas in the Euro Youth Basketball Cup.
“Everyone was just excited and happy,” Campbell said, “My grandparents were crying.”
Selected by an organization called PhD Hoops, the point guard from Bryant High School said playing in the tournament was an unforgettable experience, with her team walking away with gold.
“Coach Kirby, he welcomed me so much. And he has a special place in my heart,” Campbell said.
What makes Campbell stand out isn’t so much how many points she puts on the board, but more so how she plays the game.
“I wasn’t scoring the whole time. I was also helping my teammates score and assisting,” Campbell said. “So, I wasn’t expecting to get MVP award, because usually that’s the most points on the court.”
For nine days, Campbell gave it all she got in the international competition. Coming back home to practice on a familiar court, but with a new sense of pride.
“It makes me feel like people look up to me more. And I have higher standards for myself now,” Campbell said.