Rainier Beach Youth and Community Gather for Basketball Empowerment Camp Honoring Slick Watts
Fathers and Sons Together (FAST) recently hosted the Basketball Empowerment Camp Honoring Slick Watts at the Rainier Beach Community Center, an event designed as a direct community response to gun violence and the urgent need for collective healing.
In partnership with the WATTS Foundation, Seattle Neighborhood Group, and the Seattle Police Department, FAST centered the event on the theme “Play Together. Protect Together. Rise Together.” FAST Co-Executive Director Cathie Wilmore talked about the significance of Seattle’s Rainier Beach neighborhood.
"We know that we've had a tragic incident in our community, but that's not who we are. We're much more than that. We're a very resilient community,” Wilmore said in reference to a recent act of gun violence in Rainier Beach.
The youth-focused camp used basketball as a platform for public safety, community building, and leadership development. Attendees participated in a three-on-three tournament and received skills training led by Watts Basketball, featuring Donald Watts. The day also included a community dialogue focusing on gun violence prevention, youth safety, and what Rainier Beach needs to thrive.
Former Seattle Seahawks offensive tackle Garry Gilliam, now CEO of The Bridge Eco Village, attended the camp.
"I'm a firm believer that talent is evenly distributed, but resources and opportunity are not. So, if I can help build that bridge, get the resources and the opportunities for where they're at to where they need to be, then you'll see me there,” he said.
The celebration culminated in honoring the event's namesake, Seattle SuperSonics legend Slick Watts, a figure beloved for his foundational community work. City Council President Joy Hollingsworth presented an official proclamation of "Slick Watts Day" to Donald Watts on behalf of his father.
Slick Watts, who is remembered for his heart for youth and mentorship after his passing in 2025, stood by a message that continues to inspire the next generation: give back to your community, as that is where your strength comes from. This gathering demonstrated the Rainier Beach community's resilience and proved that by centering youth and families, a foundation for real safety and hope can be built.
Learn more about FAST and their upcoming events here.
Did you enjoy this blog post? Then consider donating to Converge and supporting our mission here.
