Chris Paul ran the CP3 Elite Guard Camp in Las Vegas on July 10, 2026, where Marquette sophomore guard Nigel James Jr. sharpened his pick‑and‑roll reads and free‑throw routine under the NBA legend’s direct guidance.
What happened at the camp?
The three‑day session gathered top high‑school and college talent, including Duke’s John Blackwell and Missouri’s Jason Crowe Jr. Participants drilled under Paul’s watch, reviewing film of his own career and dissecting defensive coverages. James Jr. won the one‑on‑one competition, beating peers and a larger opponent from Jayson Tatum’s concurrent camp.
How did Chris Paul influence James Jr.?
James Jr. said Paul broke down pick‑and‑roll concepts step by step, showing how to read help defense and exploit mismatches. Paul also warned about the business side of college basketball, urging players to be financially savvy. The guard left the camp with a notebook full of drills and a new focus on improving his assist‑to‑turnover ratio, which sat at 1.8 last season.
Why does this matter for Marquette’s upcoming season?
Marquette head coach Shaka Smart highlighted the camp as a key offseason boost. James Jr. entered the summer averaging 16.4 points, 4.9 assists and 3.4 rebounds. He added five pounds of muscle and aims to raise his free‑throw percentage from 69.2% to 90% in practice. Those upgrades should help him guard bigger opponents, a skill he tested against a 215‑pound player at the camp.
What are James Jr.’s goals for his sophomore year?
The guard plans to translate camp lessons into on‑court production. He and assistant coach Jeremy Ballard will run daily free‑throw drills, targeting specific makes out of set attempts. James Jr. also wants to cut turnovers, a focus that aligns with Paul’s emphasis on ball security. If he hits those marks, Marquette could see a smoother sophomore transition, avoiding the “lumps” Smart warned about.
What’s next for Chris Paul’s camp?
Paul’s CP3 Elite Guard Camp returns each summer, drawing the nation’s brightest guards. The July 2026 edition proved a springboard for James Jr., who now carries Paul’s teachings into the Big East schedule. As the season approaches, the ripple effect of Paul’s mentorship will be evident whenever James Jr. runs a pick‑and‑roll or steps up for a crucial free throw.