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