MEMPHIS, Tenn., Aug. 8, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2018 Weems Week, held July 30 to August 3, was met with much success and a stellar turnout. Hosted by professional athlete Sonny Weems, the annual week-long event's goal is to inspire and motivate the next generation of thinkers and doers. This was the 6th year that Weems hosted the event, which features a basketball camp, back to school supplies/backpack giveaway, and a community clean-up.
Since 2012, Weems Week has impacted more than 2,100 students in his hometown of West Memphis, Arkansas. His legacy continues to grow, and his work helps to champion the next generation of great leaders both on and off the court.
"It's not the gift that God gives someone that we should be in awe of, rather it is what a person does for his fellow man with the gift that is given," said Weems.
With plans for 2019 Weems Week underway and set to be finalized by early January, goals are also being set to serve students across the country. As Weems continues to give back, he serves as a light on and off the court for many young people.
"This is my way to give back to the youth in my community. Growing up in the inner city, I was not afforded the same opportunity as many other children at the time and so I desire to build something positive that can change the lives of children in the future," said Weems.
Weems' childhood was unlike most children. Weems was born with cleft feet. Doctors and family were certain that he would never be able to walk without assistance. After enduring many painful years and wearing corrective shoes, the young Weems would eventually miraculously begin walking without corrective shoes and playing sports. The budding athlete became a state long jump and high jump champion in track and field at West Memphis High School. However, Weems departed track and field and found his true love, the sport of basketball.
Weems graduated from West Memphis High School where he was named first team all-state as a senior. He helped his team win the Arkansas 5A Championship before going on to play at The University of Arkansas-Fort Smith where he became an All-American and was ranked No. 1 in the nation. Weems led his team to two National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Eastern Conference Division title before signing with the prestigious University of Arkansas. As a Razorback, he competed for coach Stan Heath in his final year of coaching. He helped to lead the SEC NCAA Division I powerhouse team to two consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. He finished his senior year as the State Farm College Slam Dunk Champion at the NCAA Final Four. After college, he was selected as the 39th pick in the 2008 NBA Draft by the Chicago Bulls.
His NBA career includes the Denver Nuggets, Toronto Raptures, Phoenix Suns and the Philadelphia 76ers. After starting his international career in Europe in the summer of 2011 and playing for three seasons, he returned to the NBA in July of 2015. Due to his love for the international game, he returned overseas and has taken teams to multiple EuroLeague Final Fours and was named to the prestigious First Team EuroLeague Competition. He played last season in China, where he was named one of the top 10 players in scoring averaging more than 30 points per game.
For more information on Weems, visit www.sonnyweems13.com.
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SOURCE Sonny Weems
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