Latta Leaves Smiles at "Be Fit" Clinic

The clinic began with kids asking questions to Latta, who emphasized the importance of stretching before playing basketball. Afterwards, the children split into groups and competed to see which team could make the most lay-up shots.

Following the lay-up competition, Smith asked who was the best shooter amongst the youth. Most of the boys and girls pointed to nine-year-old Tyler. Smith challenged Tyler to beat Latta in a shooting competition and he was up to the task. Latta shot the ball from three-point range, and Tyler was 12-feet away from the basket. In the end, Tyler beat Latta two baskets to none. All the kids congratulated him for his accomplishment.

“Tyler can go on the rest of the life telling everyone that he beat the famous Ivory Latta,” Smith said with a grin.

Tyler was definitely content with the result.

“It was awesome,” Tyler said. “It is one of my best accomplishments.”

After Tyler’s victory, Smith showed everyone what he called the “Ivory Latta Defensive Drill.” Both demonstrated how the boys and girls should slide their feet, bend their knees and keep low to play great defense.

At the conclusion of the “Be Fit” clinic, Latta stressed the importance of living healthy, enjoying yourself and having a great education, first and foremost.

“Basketball and sports can only take you so far,” Latta said. “Your education will take you a long way in life.”

The Troy youth were thrilled that Latta came to their community.

“I gained a lot from Latta,” Mary Kathryn Riddick, 12, said. “It was cool having her here because she respects the people who watch her and is giving back. She taught us to stay focused, keep going and to respect others.”

Latta provided one provided one last piece of advice.

“Stay focused with what you want to do and have a good attitude,” Latta said. “Listen to your parents and tell them how much you love them. Enjoy yourselves and have fun. It makes me happy when I see kids with smiles on their faces.”