We Are
Fourth Quarter Shots was founded by Courtney Dunham with a vision to provide underprivileged youth the opportunity to excel in basketball and life, regardless of their financial circumstances or background. Recognizing the barriers many young people face in accessing quality sports programs, Fourth Quarter Shots was established to break down those barriers and offer a safe, supportive environment where youth can grow both as athletes and individuals. Through free basketball camps, mentorship, and life skills training, we aim to inspire and equip the next generation to be their best on and off the court.
Our Story
Growing up, Courtney Dunham witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by youth in vulnerable communities—challenges that often kept them from accessing the same opportunities as their more fortunate peers. As a former athlete, she understood the power of sports to teach discipline, perseverance, and teamwork—skills that extend far beyond the court. Inspired by the concept of the fourth quarter in basketball, where every play and every shot counts, Courtney founded Fourth Quarter Shots to embody that same relentless spirit and determination in the lives of young people.
The organization began with a simple goal: to bring quality basketball training to neighborhoods often overlooked by traditional sports programs. What started as a single camp has grown into a series of impactful events throughout Houston, each designed to provide youth with not just basketball skills, but also the life skills needed to succeed. Despite facing challenges like securing funding and finding locations, Courtney and her team remain committed to their mission, driven by the belief that every child deserves the chance to shine, no matter where they come from.
Expanded Mission
4th Quarter Shots is dedicated to empowering youth from underserved communities by providing access to high-quality basketball training and personal development at no cost. Our mission is to create a safe, inclusive space where young people can learn, grow, and develop the skills needed to succeed on the court and in life. We believe that every child, regardless of their background or financial situation, deserves the chance to excel and pursue their dreams.
Expanded Vision
In basketball, the 4th quarter represents the final, most crucial moments of the game—when every decision matters and every effort counts. We envision a world where every child approaches their life with that same focus and intensity, equipped with the tools and support to overcome any challenge. Our vision is to see young people from all walks of life rise above their circumstances, become leaders in their communities, and achieve greatness both in sports and beyond. By nurturing their talents and teaching them to apply the principles of perseverance, accountability, and discipline, we strive to build a future where no child is limited by their environment.
Core Values
Our values form the foundation of our program, ensuring that every participant is P.A.I.D. (Perseverance, Accountability, Inclusion, Discipline).
Perseverance
At 4th Quarter Shots, we believe in the power of never giving up. Our programs are designed to teach youth how to push through challenges, stay focused, and keep striving towards their goals, no matter the obstacles.
Accountability
We emphasize the importance of taking responsibility for one’s actions, both on and off the court. By fostering a culture of accountability, we help our participants understand the value of commitment, integrity, and being dependable teammates and individuals.
Inclusion
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where every child feels welcome and valued. Our camps are open to all, regardless of background, ability, or financial status, because we believe diversity strengthens our community and enriches the learning experience.
Discipline
Discipline is at the heart of success in both basketball and life. Our training programs instill the discipline needed to practice, improve, and make wise decisions. We teach youth that with discipline, they can achieve anything they set their minds to.