CAM BURRELL: UNGUARDED

From Chicago grit to Globetrotter glow, Cam Burrell’s journey is redefining what it means to be a modern-day baller.

Words by Angel Neal

Photography by  Forty Photography

On paper, Cam Burrell’s college stats at Lindenwood read like the resume of someone bound for a traditional professional league. He led in points, steals, and energy—on and off the court. But destiny had a different spin.

“The Harlem Globetrotters came out of nowhere,” Cam says, laughing. “I was about to sign an overseas deal—literally the day before—and then they reached out. It felt like it was meant to be.”

For many, the pivot from competitive collegiate basketball to the theatrical, high-flying world of the Globetrotters might seem like a detour. For Cam, it was an unexpected lane that unlocked another side of himself—one that wasn't always front and center. “In college, I was the quiet kid. No emotion, just locked in on the game. But the Globetrotters? You have to entertain. You have to light up arenas, talk to crowds, joke with kids. It’s not just ball—it’s joy.” And joy is exactly what Cam Burrell brings to every game. The kind of joy that gets kids jumping out of their seats and parents grinning from ear to ear. But make no mistake, it’s still elite-level hoops.

“We practice like pros. We run through every play, every routine. I train daily with teammates on ball handling, conditioning. We play hundreds of games. You gotta stay ready.”

Off the court, Cam’s presence is just as magnetic. Known for his easygoing charisma and contagious smile—nicknamed “Cheez-It” growing up—he’s still learning to lean into his star power. “I’m an introvert, really. But something about being out there, dancing, talking to the crowd—it brings it out of me now. My second year? I’m way more comfortable. I’m singing, joking. It’s fun.” But for Cam, 2025 isn’t just about entertainment. It’s about elevation.“My pops always told me, ‘It’s more than basketball.’ So this year I’m getting into fashion, doing more photoshoots, and really trying to show that athletes can be more. I want to redefine what it means to be a pro in today’s world.”

Raised in Chicago, Cam is intimately aware of how sports can offer an escape—but also how fragile that escape can be.

“Chicago can be tough. I’ve seen what happens when kids get cut from teams or feel left out. That’s when trouble finds them. I want to create something to keep kids in the game—literally. Somewhere they can go after school, stay focused, stay safe.”

Mental health is another topic Cam doesn’t shy away from. “I was ready to quit basketball before I got to Lindenwood. Depression, low confidence—I was in a bad place. But that year changed everything. I started believing in myself again. When people don’t believe in you, you have to.” Today, that inner belief fuels everything—from his impact on court to his influence in communities. It’s also what keeps him grounded as his platform grows. “Social media, the attention—it can be overwhelming. So I take time for myself. I isolate sometimes. Go back to my roots. Remember why I started.” When asked what he hopes people remember most about him, Cam’s answer isn’t about accolades.

“Just remember me as a good person. That’s it. Someone who helped when he could. Someone who smiled.”

CAM’S FINAL THOUGHTS

Thoughts on using my influence:“I want to use my influence to make a better Chicago.”

Thoughts on prayer:“Prayer is everything. God’s the reason I’m here.”

Thoughts on intuition:“When I ignore it, I regret it. Trust your gut—it’s usually right.”

Thoughts on success:“Success doesn’t happen overnight. Stay consistent, stay dedicated. It’ll come.”

Something we all know but bears repeating:“People won’t always believe in you. Believe in yourself anyway.”

Cam Burrell isn’t just flipping the script on what it means to be a baller—he’s rewriting it. With his quiet confidence, infectious energy, and growing influence, he’s living proof that staying true to yourself isn’t just an option—it’s the secret weapon. Disrupshion recognizes those who move differently. Cam Burrell isn’t just moving—he’s flying.

Grab his issue in print right here--

🔗 Cam's Issue – Disrupshion Magazine