Jing is a big contact type of play player, one that enjoys being able to draw fouls and create space for making plays in the post area. There’s no doubt that his body and motion were made for that type of physicality. Although after an injury, a heavy amount of contact can be damaging to parts of your body. Training with Coach Garrett allowed for Jing to further expand the skills he already had in his tool box, all they had to do was invest in those strong assets that Jing possessed, making them available to him and his teammates.

From filling out your bracket to a team cutting the net, the most exciting time in college basketball has finally come to a close and this tournament was one for the books. If there’s one thing you can count on March Madness for it’s the pure terror, excitement, and anticipation of these games, and this year was no different. 

“Hosting the clinic here just seemed natural considering I train with everyone here. Why not share that with these young athletes? Everyone here has so much knowledge and skill to share about the game and that’s the whole goal,” Jones said. 

Parents play a critical role in an athlete’s development, particularly when it comes to supporting their mental and emotional growth. However, it’s a unique role that can be tough to navigate. You’re not their coach, but you’re also more than just a cheerleader.

Taking away two players from each team calls for an adjustment in order to succeed. Johnson outlined the differences that come with playing 3v3, which includes having more room on the court allowing for more opportunity to make the right reads or a faster pace which encourages strategic thinking under pressure

“I love seeing how excited the girls get for each other, especially when a girl makes a basket. They create such a positive environment and always cheer one another on! It’s always nice to see all the girls smiling and laughing throughout the clinic,” Coach V said.

“The earlier you start mental training, the easier it is to mold your brain into a mindset built on good habits. It’s easier to train your brain because the older you are the more cemented you are in your beliefs and habits but there’s always room to learn and grow” 

If there’s one lesson that basketball has taught Coach Elijah Duque, it’s that life is full of unexpected curveballs whether they are good or bad–but the mindset that you embody to approach those moments are what matter the most.

 “If [Coach Dylan] had never encouraged me to try out for the AAU team again, I wouldn’t be on the team. UPB is a really supportive environment and is a positive community that makes me love basketball even more,” Gotelli said.

Anticipation is building as we are all excited to see how these players perform and interact with each other on the court for the 74th All-Star weekend. The stage is set for a weekend of competition and fun, it’s only a matter of time before the action unfolds!

Tehada emphasizes UPB’s commitment to ensuring that every player and family feels welcome. He gained inspiration from seeing firsthand how much power a supportive and determined organization can do for someone no matter what level they’re at with basketball and in life.