Inspired by the annual DMac Invitational 3v3 tournament, this year marks the inaugural CJ23 Invitational. The host and founder of the DMac Invitational, Derek McMonagle, and CJ23 Invitational host and founder Cam Johnson have been best friends since high school. In the midst of the NBA Playoffs, Cam and D sat down to discuss ways to impact the community back home in Pittsburgh, and embarked on the journey of creating this event. Giving back has always been important to Cam, and what better way to do it than a day packed with hoops.

THE CHARITIES

The Kyle B Wilson Scholarship Fund honors Kyle Wilson, a great athlete and even better person, who tragically passed away at the age of 17 in 2008. Kyle was a long-time teammate of Cam’s older brother, Aaron, and the Johnson and Wilson families remain close. The fund keeps Kyle’s legacy alive by donating annual scholarships to families and students that need assistance.

The Ozanam After School Program operates out of the Hill District in Pittsburgh, and is a beacon for the youth of the area athletically and academically. In addition to offering students academic help and sports opportunities, the program offers students a daily meal. 

ABOUT CAM

A native of Moon Township, Pennsylvania, Cam Johnson was picked by the Phoenix Suns with the 11th pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. His college career began at the University of Pittsburgh, where he spent three years and graduated with a degree in communications. Upon graduation, Johnson transferred to the University of North Carolina where he played his final two collegiate seasons, and is working towards finishing his masters degree in sports administration. Coming off of an NBA Finals appearance in his second season, Johnson and the Suns are looking to get back and capture the title.