Oxford Middle Schooler Marissa Manzella, 12, was pretty cool when talking about the most recent award she won:
‘I was pretty happy, pretty satisfied I got it,? she said. ‘When they called my name, I didn’t know what to say. It’s hard to explain – I was excited.?
Manzella was named the winner of the ‘Best Hussle? Award at the Detroit Pistons Basketball Camp held in the Palace of Auburn Hills August 9-12. The Pistons basketball camps are held throughout the summer in different cities statewide. Manzella attended the one at the Palace with around 149 other youths grades six through eleven.
‘We got to play on the Palace floor, and we got to take a tour of the locker rooms and training rooms – and their shoes were stored there, they were huge!? exclaimed the youngster.
‘The best part though was the games. I liked the regular games and the trophy games,? she added.
In addition to learning basketball skills and participating in team games, camp participants were treated each day to a ‘special visit? from a Pistons team member. Campers even got a chance to see the NBA National Trophy.
The Piston’s Camp ‘Best Hussle? Award is presented to the player that shows the most teamwork, sportsmanship and gives 100 percent all the time. The award is one of only four chosen from across the age groups at the camp.
‘I did work hard. I gave it 100 percent all the time,? said Manzella. ‘That’s how I play.?
In addition to her top award, Manzella also received the ‘Hot Shots Championship? title during a skill test. The girls were asked to sprint across the free throw line making corner shots from the ends. Manzella was able to make six shots in 30 seconds.
‘I enjoyed the camp,? she stated. ‘There was so much, it all was great.?
This past year Manzella played for the Oxford ‘Not Yet Wildcats? AAU Team. She plans on playing for Oxford Middle School this year, in addition to being on student council, playing soccer and participating in band.