If you know me, you know I love this game. Basketball has given me so much, and now I’m at a point where giving back feels just as exciting as competing ever did. That’s why the Epiphanny Prince Academy means so much to me.

I get to work with 15 of the top young hoopers 8th grade and below; and let me tell you, these girls can go. We do runs, we break down the core fundamentals of the game, and I push them because I know how far this game can take you if you have the right foundation. But it’s not just about hoops.

One thing I care deeply about is making sure these girls grow off the court, too. Being a student athlete is stressful, especially when you’re young and already competing at a high level. So I make sure we take trips, laugh, and just have fun because balance matters. We’ve created a real family atmosphere, and that’s important to me. Once you’re in this academy, you’re part of the sisterhood for life.

Why 8th grade and under? Because around 14, a lot of girls stop playing sports altogether. I don’t want to lose them to that statistic. If I can give them the right guidance, support, and confidence early on, maybe more of them will stick with it and reach their full potential.

And I’ll be honest I’m doing this for the love of the game, too. I want to see women’s basketball continue to grow, and I want to make sure NYC Basketball STAYS ON TOP. Watching these girls develop, I can already tell we’re in good hands. The future of the game is bright, and I’m lucky enough to be right here watching it unfold.

                                                               

 -Piph

Hey everyone!
 
My name is Maddie Bravo, and I just wanted to share a little bit about myself. First things first, I REALLY love basketball. Like, it’s my favorite thing ever! Whenever I’m on the court, dribbling, shooting, or playing with my team, I feel the most happy. It’s the best feeling in the world.
 
My mom always reminds me how important it is to be a student-athlete. That means working hard in school and giving my best in basketball. I try really hard at both, because I know they go together. I want to be great on and off the court!
 
Something super cool happened to me a while ago, I got picked to be part of the Epiphanny Prince Academy! I was SO excited when I found out. Being part of this academy has been such a blessing. Piph and her team are seriously the nicest people ever. They help us become better players and better people. They show us that basketball can open doors and take us to amazing places in life.
Since joining, I’ve met so many awesome girls who love basketball just like I do. We train together, learn from each other, and have so much fun. It’s really cool being around other girls who understand what it’s like to dream big with basketball.
 
I think it’s amazing how Piph is giving back and helping us chase the same dreams she once had and accomplished! I just want to say a BIG thank you to her and everyone at the academy for all the love and support. One day, I want to give back too, just like they are.
I feel so lucky to be part of something this special. I can’t wait to keep learning, growing, and seeing where basketball takes me next!
 
Thanks for reading!

-Maddie