Pistons bring 'Extreme Team' to youth camp at TC Central

TRAVERSE CITY — The Pistons Academy Tour traveled to Traverse City for one of their summer youth camps.

They’ve been all over the state this summer, hosting 14 different camps in the Metro Detroit area and across the state. Their last camp of the summer was at Traverse City Central High School this week.

Campers received NBA-level instruction in a fun and competitive atmosphere and were also treated to a show on day two, when the Pistons brought in the “Extreme Team.” The Pistons said watching these high-flying hoopers dunk and flip off of trampolines is usually the highlight for campers and parents alike.

“The goal for us is to let them know that the Pistons are a team on the court, and we’re working to be great there, but we always want to be great in the community. We’re a community resource, not just a basketball team,” said Aaron Smith, director of youth engagement. “The Extreme Team, there’s no better show than what they put on. When you see these guys jump off the trampolines and the reactions of the kids is off the charts, they become rockstars.”

The hour-long dunk show concluded Wednesday’s session, with the camp finishing on Thursday. However, Aaron Smith said he thinks they will definitely be back next summer.