Why I’m a fan of Raymond Felton Jr.

Lets put aside the fact that he’s from South Carolina and pretty much a hometown hero. I’m a fan of Charlotte Bobcats point guard Raymond Felton for a few reasons.

Many have known him since a kid, I just knew of him. I guess it started after that Beach Ball Classic game against DeMatha High School. Felton went off for over 30 points in the upset and sold out every gym he played in during his senior season. A few months later I picked up a Slam Magazine and posted the picture included in the “Everybody loves Raymond” article and posted it to my “Wall of Fame.”

That year Felton played alongside a remarkable class at the McDonald’s All-American game, dishing out dimes to Amare Stoudamire and Carmelo Anthony. His first dunk attempt during their slam dunk contest was awesome too.

Me and my brothers Chris, Russ and Shad watched as many games as we could during his three season playing for the UNC Tarheels and he helped bring home the national championship that healed years of heartache and pain.

And then he joined the nearby NBA franchise, instantly becoming the foundation to a team that has improved every year he’s worn the uniform. He’s a proven scorer but plays to his strengths and shares the basketball. The point guard position is not easy and demands a lot, but he always seems to remain poise and is an excellent passer.

However, what really makes me a fan of Felton is his compassion for others and willingness to make a difference in the community. There have been many nights I’ve seen him inside the gym at Mullins High School supporting the team, talking with fans, and taking the time to answer tough questions. He’s never turned me down when asked to comment and carries himself in a respectful manner.

For the past three years I’ve been making stops at his camp at MHS and his connection with the kids is too cool. Monday while standing on the court just watching the campers having fun on their first day, in the middle of all the shoot around madness, was Felton himself playing with his young ball players. Every kid that approached got his full attention.

I appreciate the Felton family, Auctioneer basketball coach Mark Gerald and all the individuals that contribute their time providing such an opportunity. This is a great way to generate more fans for the future all-star, and trust me he has many. And yes I said future all-star because I’m getting the grassroots movement started early to garner votes for one of my favorite point guards in the game.

In fact, this camp has already helped me take notice of another young point guard that could eventually be another star for the program and that's 11-year old Bernard Jones. This kid can play every position on the floor and has proven himself to be a real competitor.


Campers rush the floor shooting a few jumpers with Raymond Felton Jr. during the fourth annual basketball camp event at Mullins High School

Posted by on 06/24 at 04:53 PM