Boston Celtics reserve big man Luka Garza just wrapped up his second Luka Garza Academy skills camp of the summer in Indianola, Iowa. This isn’t just some athlete phoning it in, either. Garza is truly invested in the state where he played his NCAA basketball, showing up big for the next generation. Even Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla swung by the camp, fitting it into his offseason schedule to spend time with his players. That’s a huge sign of respect, right?
Why Iowa Holds a Piece of Garza’s Heart
Garza himself opened up to local ABC station KCAU-TV Sioux City about why he keeps making time for these camps. He said it plainly: “Iowa just means an incredible amount to me and my family.” He talks about how his entire life trajectory shifted there, how he hit his dreams and goals because of the University of Iowa. It’s where he learned, where he developed, and where people truly supported him, putting their arms around him and pushing him every single day. Seriously, he feels like he owes something back to them.
More Than Just a Camp: A True Payback
He’s not just talking; he’s walking the talk. Garza makes it a point every summer to “come and give back a little bit because I know how much was given to me in my time here.” This isn’t just a skills camp. It’s a testament to loyalty and gratitude. It shows what happens when an athlete never forgets where they came from, and that kind of genuine connection? It’s what every community wants from their heroes.
Next summer, you can bet Garza will be back in Iowa, continuing to inspire the kids. It’s a reminder that even after making it to the pros, some bonds just never break.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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