About Us
Our mission is to nurture young children's growth through fun basketball experiences.
Basketball Buddies was founded because we believe early basketball experiences should be more than just learning to dribble and shoot. These first moments with basketball shape how children feel about being active, teamwork, and trying new things. That's why we've designed a program that puts fun and development first.
Our age-appropriate activities help 3-5 year olds discover basketball in a way that makes sense for them. While they're having fun bouncing balls and making baskets, they're also building confidence, learning to work with others, and developing physical skills they'll use in other sports.
Each class is led by coaches who understand young children - their energy, their need to move, and their joy in learning new things. We bring basketball right to childcare centers because we believe every child should have the chance to discover sports in a positive, encouraging environment.
Through playful activities, children learn more than just basketball. They practice taking turns, following directions, and celebrating each other's success. They develop coordination and body control. Most importantly, they learn that being active and trying new things can be fun.
“The magic happens when children forget they're learning because they're having so much fun. That's what basketball should be at this age.”
— Ieshia, Founder and CEO of Basketball Buddies
As founder of Basketball Buddies, my journey with basketball began right here in Indianapolis where I was born and raised. Basketball has been a constant in my life, from winning two state championships at North Central High School to coaching young players in our community. The sport helped shape who I am today, teaching me confidence, discipline, leadership, and teamwork – skills I've carried into both my personal and professional life.
My journey in youth basketball started as a volunteer coach with Girls Inc. and several elementary schools. This experience inspired me to do more, leading me to start a non-profit organization that brought basketball and tutoring programs to elementary schools in low-income neighborhoods. Through the non-profit, we helped students improve both their academic performance and basketball skills. This showed me the incredible impact sports can have on children's development and confidence.
As a mother to a basketball-loving four-year-old son, I noticed something missing in childcare centers – there weren't any quality basketball programs for young children. This gap, combined with my passion for coaching children and giving back to our community, inspired me to start Basketball Buddies.
I believe every child deserves the chance to experience the joy and growth that basketball brought to my life. By bringing these programs directly to childcare centers, we're making basketball accessible and fun for our littlest players, setting them up for success both on and off the court.
Founder and CEO
Ieshia Hill
