BobKat Fudge Moore, Wildkat alum Tayler Persons guide dozens of kids through the basics

The Carver Summer Basketball Camp recently became a dynamic hub for young athletes in Kokomo, drawing 60 students from kindergarten through 12th grade each day. The gym was filled with excitement, energy, and focused learning, as a standout group of coaches guided campers through drills, challenges, and meaningful conversations that extended beyond the court.

The camp’s coaching staff was comprised of high-level basketball minds, each with a unique story of success at the collegiate or professional level. Antonio Penny, Tayler Persons, Tremont “Fudge” Moore, and Ja’Rob McCallum brought with them not just knowledge of the game, but a passion for mentorship and development. Their unified goal was clear: help kids improve in basketball while offering lessons they could apply in everyday life.

Antonio Penny, who leads basketball instruction through his family business “The Penny Way,” spoke about the heart of the experience.

“Camp was amazing,” he shared. “The growth in just three days made the camp feel like a family reunion and a place basketball players can call home. The connection of life through hoops is valuable because you see kids push themselves through adversity while learning what they’ll need to make it through life.”

Penny’s approach fused intensity with encouragement, leaving a lasting impression on every participant.

Ja’Rob McCallum, a former Marion Giant and IUPUI standout, echoed that same spirit.

“The greatest highlight of the week was witnessing real growth in such a short time. The kids came in engaged, energized, and eager to improve,” he said. “But beyond the skills and drills, this is what it’s truly about, creating opportunities not only to develop their game, but to uplift and share lessons they can carry into every aspect of life.”

Tayler Persons, a Kokomo native and Indiana All-Star who now plays professionally overseas, brought consistent energy to the gym. Whether coaching drills or chatting with campers during breaks, he was fully present and passionate about giving back to his hometown. His hands-on teaching style inspired kids to see the joy in hard work.

Tremont “Fudge” Moore, known for his electric presence with the Kokomo BobKats, added a jolt of enthusiasm that carried the camp each day. His vibrant spirit, encouragement, and infectious energy lit up the gym and brought out the best in every camper.

The Carver Summer Basketball Camp left a powerful mark, blending elite-level training with intentional mentorship. And with the success of this week behind them, it’s clear this is just the beginning of something special at Carver.