GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) — Before his jersey is raised into the rafters at the Kress Center, one of the greatest players in UW-Green Bay men’s basketball history spent his morning back where his journey began — giving back to the next generation.
Keifer Sykes, the high-flying point guard who became the face of Phoenix basketball during his collegiate career, returned to Green Bay East High School on Saturday to host a free youth basketball camp for local kids in grades two through six.
It’s the same gym he once used as an escape during his college years — a place to get off campus, play ball and connect with the community.
“I played here a lot when I was in college,” Sykes said. “There were times I just wanted to get away, play basketball and be out in the community. To come back here before the ceremony and give back means a lot.”
Sykes says he didn’t have access to free camps or mentors growing up, which is why hosting one now holds such deep meaning.
“I didn’t have that professional or collegiate player to help me on my journey,” he said. “So to be that person for them now means a lot.”
The camp isn’t just about teaching basketball skills — it’s about inspiring kids to dream big and showing them how far the game can take them.
“My favorite part is seeing myself in them,” Sykes added. “I was once that kid with dreams and ambitions, and basketball took me further than I ever imagined.”
Later Saturday night, Sykes will see his No. 24 jersey retired by UW-Green Bay, a moment he says still feels “surreal.” The honor cements his place in program history as one of its most impactful players — but for Sykes, his true legacy is defined by what he’s doing now.
“I want to be remembered for what I’m doing right here — giving back, bringing energy, having character, and focusing on community,” he said.
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Adding to the full-circle nature of the night, Bradley University — coached by Sykes’ former UWGB head coach Brian Wardle — will be the opponent for the Phoenix’s exhibition game. It’s a reunion that will make an already special night even more meaningful.
Sykes’ jersey retirement marks a celebration of both his unforgettable past on the court and the future he continues to inspire off of it.
