Athletes often undergo training to improve several key aspects that can help them once they step into the spotlight. Cameron Mercadel is among the many who routinely hits the gym to improve his athleticism, and the young sports superstar is only 15 years old.
Cameron was born and raised in the Golden State. His parents were basketball players back when they were in college. After some injuries and prayers, his father would later open Mercadel Basketball Academy, where Cameron trains.
His interest in basketball started when he was merely a year old. Cameron found a basketball in the house and started pushing it and moving it around. By three years old, his interest began to grow. It became a routine for Cameron to shoot some hundred shots before heading to school. Around four or five years old, it clicked in his mind that he wanted to play seriously.
Despite being in middle school, Cameron’s eyes are set on a place in the high school varsity team. He has been preparing by training four to six hours a day. With his father’s encouragement, he trains with coaches in boxing, speed and agility, and strength & conditioning. Having a lot of trainers, Cameron can improve his coordination, focus, and balance. He is personally coached by his father when it comes to basketball.
Taking advantage of technological advancement, Cameron has been keeping track of his personal journey with a series of videos that can be viewed on YouTube. There he posts his workouts, training, and even highlights. From there, he was noticed.
Whistle Sports, an entertainment brand that highlights athletes of all ages, featured Cameron on one of their No Days Off episodes. Upon meeting Cameron and shooting the episode, the team was blown away by his incredible work ethic and on-court ability. Jason Malone, the president of PlayMaker Network, has even said: “Cameron Mercadel is a unique talent with the dedicated drive and spirit required to help him excel beyond his imagination.” While praises were coming in, Cameron has remained humble.
Cameron bases his playstyle on two big names: Russell Westbrook and Kyrie Irving. He admires Irving’s ability to dribble, shoot, and finish over seven-foot players. Westbrook’s energy and passion are the two things that Cameron wants to emulate. So far, this has been evident when he steps upon the court. People are able to witness the hustle, ball-handling skills, and understanding of the game that Cameron possesses.
Aware of the influence that he has, Cameron has decided to use his platform to help other players improve their skills, whether they’re younger, the same age, or even a little older than him. He is following in his father’s steps as a coach to help people. He has also started a foundation to help people with hunger problems in the community.
Like many others, Cameron dreams of making it to the big leagues. To get there, he has his goals set on making it to varsity as a freshman, earn a degree, and proceed to the NBA.
Cameron’s journey can be found on his YouTube channel. You may also visit his website to find more about the next big thing in basketball.
