TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – Former Arizona basketball standout Joseph Blair returned to Tucson for his 2nd annual Mama Blair Basketball Camp.

Dozens of teens ages 13-18 participated in the free, two-day clinic at Pueblo High School.

“To be back here and still have an impact on the community after I’ve moved out of the community, it goes beyond words for me,” Blair said.

The camp honors Blair’s mother, Judith Blair, who passed away from cancer in 2019. She was well-known for her community service. Blair said it means everything to continue her legacy.

“It comes down to me trying to make an impact on the community,” he said. “That comes from my mom. She was such an advocate for making an impact, touching people’s lives. When you touch an individual life, the ripple effects of that are throughout the community.” 

Dozens of young basketball players learned from Blair, plus other local and NBA G-League coaches. They participated in activities ranging from dribbling drills to lessons on the importance of teamwork. 

“We’re learning to have fun together,” he said. “I think basketball is such a good catalyst for learning to grow as a person responsibility-wise, health-wise, mentally.”

Blair is also working on another initiative. He aims to build two NBA regulation-style courts at Palo Verde Park in honor of his mother. The Judith Blair Memorial Courts are expected to open in 2026. The courts will feature NBA, college and high school-level three-point lines, heavy-duty goals with acrylic backboards, three-row bleachers and canopy structures with solar-powered lighting.

The City of Tucson has provided some funding, but Blair hopes to raise an additional $250 thousand dollars. You can donate here.Â