Wagner raising money for trip

A Whitehall eighth-grader will get the experience of a lifetime later this year when he travels to play basketball in the United Kingdom.

Brendan Wagner has been selected to take part in the International NBC Tour and will travel overseas for 11 days in late June.

Wagner originally became involved with the NBC (Nothing Beats Commitment) after attending several camps including one last summer in Missoula. Over the past several years, Wagner said that through the camps he has been able to improve and learn about the game he loves.

At the camp in the summer of 2017, Wagner was voted an "All-Star" player and also won the "shadow" award for the best defensive player.

When he returned to Whitehall, he was informed that he was nominated for the summer tour to the United Kingdom. After submitting his application, Wagner was notified he made the team in October.

The cost for the tour is $5,400, and Wagner is seeking sponsors to help his dream become a reality.

"For those of you that don't know me personally, basketball is one of my greatest passions. This trip will give me the unique opportunity to be an ambassador for the United States, share my faith in Christ, as well as the chance to play basketball against some of the best teams in the UK," Wagner said. "I know the tour will be a life changing experience for me. I will grow to appreciate the freedom and privileges that the United States provides for us, and I will be able to visit places I never thought I would be able to see. I will meet new people and teammates and experience a different culture and lifestyle then what we are accustom to here in the United States."

The 14-year-old student at Whitehall Middle School is conducting a raffle to raise money for the trip. The raffle tickets are $20 each or six for $100. The first prize is a Kimber 9mm pistol, the second prize is a PlayStation 4 with NBA2K 18 included, and third prize is a handmade Montana Grizzlies quilt made by his grandmother Kristie.

The $5,400 will go to a training camp, 11 days of overseas travel, two meals a day, lodging and uniforms, but does not include spending money or additional meals.

Wagner said he would greatly appreciate support through a donation or raffle tickets.

"I would be grateful for either. If you are unable to help me financially, I would be honored if you would remember me in your prayers. I would like to thank each one of you in advance for your support," he said.

Donations or money for tickets can be sent to 733 MT HWY 2 in Whitehall, or those interested in donating can pay via PayPal at mbwagner01@msn.com. Fore more information, please call 287-7982. For more information about the NBC program visit http://www.nbccamps.com/.

Brendan is the son of Marc and Bobbie Wagner.