Kids learn about Jesus & basketball at Will Graham event

Children from across Pine Ridge, South Dakota, were invited to attend basketball camp, where they learned the game while hearing about the hope of Jesus Christ.
Will Graham made several stops across South Dakota over Independence Day weekend—including a stop at the basketball camp, where he preached the Good News of Jesus Christ on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.
During his time in South Dakota, Will Graham attended multiple events and preached about the hope of Jesus. He was there to spread the word about his Black Hills Paha Sapa Celebration coming up in September.
Will Graham and his wife, Kendra, have three children and a whole lot of nieces and nephews, so joking around with kids comes pretty naturally.
The basketball camp was organized by area churches, along with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Crossfire Ministries of Asheville, North Carolina.
Stifling, dry heat didn’t stop Christian rapper FLAME from bringing his energy-packed worship to South Dakota.
Whether they were playing basketball, listening to FLAME or hearing from Will Graham, kids and teens had the opportunity to pray to invite Christ into their lives.
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
Even the basketballs shared a message of salvation.
Local leaders including James Rattling Leaf (left) have been praying for the people of Pine Ridge to find hope in Christ.
Dozens of children and several adults indicated making a decision to accept Jesus Christ during the events in South Dakota.
“Basketball is like a lifeline here,” said BGEA’s John Brandenburg who helped coordinate the events. “Schools have been shut down for COVID, and it really gets kids off the street. They just love basketball, and it’s a way in to the hearts of people, and we can bring the Gospel along with it.” Please pray for the upcoming Black Hills Paha Sapa Celebration with Will Graham.