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Brotherly Bond Fuels Success at Vermont Academy
At Vermont Academy, the Boys’ Prep Basketball team runs in the family for brothers Abe Camara ’26 and Mamadou Camara ’28. Hailing from Salem, Massachusetts, the duo has brought their lifelong connection to the hardwood, where chemistry, trust, and a shared love for the game set them apart.
Basketball has been part of their lives almost from the start. Abe began playing at age four, while Mamadou picked up the ball at just five years old. Years later, that early start shows every time they step on the court together.
When asked how being brothers affects the way they play, both pointed to the same thing: intuition. “It helps with knowing where the other is,” they said, explaining that years of playing together makes connecting on the court feel natural rather than forced. That instinctive connection often translates into smoother possessions and better decision-making in game situations.
While they share a bond, their playing styles differ in ways that complement each other. Abe describes his game as more of a facilitator’s role, focusing on moving the ball and finding shooters. Mamadou, on the other hand, thrives with the ball in his hands, attacking defenders and driving downhill toward the basket. Together, the contrast creates balance in the offense.
Their mutual respect is just as strong as their chemistry. When asked about one strength they admire in each other, Mamadou didn’t hesitate to point out Abe’s toughness, while Abe highlighted Mamadou’s ball-handling ability. It’s a reflection of how closely they watch and support each other, both in practice and in games.
Attending Vermont Academy has also played a major role in their development. Both brothers said VA has made them better athletes by exposing them to stronger competition, while also helping them grow as people. Just as important, they emphasized how much they enjoy being part of a close-knit team environment. “We love our teammates,” they shared.
Looking ahead, both Abe and Mamadou see themselves still on the court, playing college basketball. Off the court, Abe already has his sights set on studying finance, while Mamadou says he’s still figuring out what he wants to pursue academically.
Some of their favorite memories, though, have nothing to do with game nights or practices. Off the court, the brothers enjoy playing 2K with their teammates and hanging out in the dorms with friends, simple moments that make boarding school life memorable.
At Vermont Academy, Abe and Mamadou aren’t just teammates or classmates, they’re brothers continuing a shared journey, pushing each other forward, and proving that family chemistry can be one of the strongest forces in sports.
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When asked how being brothers affects the way they play, both pointed to the same thing: intuition. “It helps with knowing where the other is,” they said, explaining that years of playing together makes connecting on the court feel natural rather than forced. That instinctive connection often translates into smoother possessions and better decision-making in game situations.
While they share a bond, their playing styles differ in ways that complement each other. Abe describes his game as more of a facilitator’s role, focusing on moving the ball and finding shooters. Mamadou, on the other hand, thrives with the ball in his hands, attacking defenders and driving downhill toward the basket. Together, the contrast creates balance in the offense.
Their mutual respect is just as strong as their chemistry. When asked about one strength they admire in each other, Mamadou didn’t hesitate to point out Abe’s toughness, while Abe highlighted Mamadou’s ball-handling ability. It’s a reflection of how closely they watch and support each other, both in practice and in games.
Attending Vermont Academy has also played a major role in their development. Both brothers said VA has made them better athletes by exposing them to stronger competition, while also helping them grow as people. Just as important, they emphasized how much they enjoy being part of a close-knit team environment. “We love our teammates,” they shared.
Looking ahead, both Abe and Mamadou see themselves still on the court, playing college basketball. Off the court, Abe already has his sights set on studying finance, while Mamadou says he’s still figuring out what he wants to pursue academically.
Some of their favorite memories, though, have nothing to do with game nights or practices. Off the court, the brothers enjoy playing 2K with their teammates and hanging out in the dorms with friends, simple moments that make boarding school life memorable.
At Vermont Academy, Abe and Mamadou aren’t just teammates or classmates, they’re brothers continuing a shared journey, pushing each other forward, and proving that family chemistry can be one of the strongest forces in sports.
Vermont Academy is a coed college preparatory boarding and day school in southern Vermont, serving grades 9-12 plus a postgraduate year.
