The sounds of bouncing basketballs, cheers and even a few screams to disrupt a free throw shooter filtered through the open doors of Martin Gym Wednesday.

Inside, Alcorn State assistant men’s basketball coach Sam West and his volunteers were sending approximately 20 girls through shooting, dribbling and passing drills.

Campers participating are from as far away as Brookhaven. The camp will come to an end today.

&uot;We’ve worked hard all week,&uot; said West. &uot;It’s been an excellent group.&uot;

The camp is West’s eighth to be held in Natchez. He divides each summer camp into a boys and girls session. The boys camp will be held the week of June 12.

West said the girls attending recent camps have come a long way.

&uot;I think without a doubt there’s been a lot of improvement in the fundamentals girls have shown,&uot;&160;he said. &uot;I haven’t had as much of a chance to see girls basketball, but they are showing the desire and determination it takes to get better.&uot;

Jefferson County girls coach Flora McKnight, who has taken her team to the Class 3A state semifinals the last two years, is in her fourth year of helping West.

&uot;I love it,&uot; she said. &uot;The fundamentals are what the girls need to learn first. And Sam is a great motivator. He makes you believe in yourself.&uot;

Candace Hale, 9, of Ridgecrest, La., said the camp has been a lot of fun.

&uot;I’ve learned a lot about dribbling and shooting,&uot; she said.

Lauren Clayton, 12, of Vidalia, La., said she has enjoyed the dribbling and passing drills.

&uot;I’ve learned how to handle the ball better and shoot better,&uot; she said.

Jackie Pinder, 14, of Fayette, said the camp has helped her overall game.

&uot;I’ve learned to dribble with my right and left hand and how to pivot,&uot; she said.

&uot;I’ve also learned how to square up for my shot.&uot;