MEET OUR TRAINERING STAFF
At The Basketball Factory, we stand by a promise to teach your kid the essentials of basketball with a firm commitment to professionalism, structure, training, and practice. We focus on personal growth, teamwork, and core values that will serve them well beyond the court, preparing them to tackle any of life's challenges with confidence.
MEET OUR TRAINERS
Our trainers at The Basketball Factory are integral to our AAU basketball development program in Northern New Jersey. With a team of seasoned and certified trainers who have experienced the game firsthand, we focus on skill development, discipline, and character building through our structured training curriculum.
Each trainer holds certifications from esteemed organizations like USA Basketball, American Development Model, and the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), demonstrating their expertise and commitment to proper training standards. These certifications ensure your child learns from qualified professionals who understand how to develop young athletes correctly and safely.
To maintain the integrity of our program, all trainers undergo background verification. We believe that trainers who have played the game at high levels bring invaluable experience and understanding, which is why our team includes former professional and collegiate players dedicated to developing the next generation of basketball talent through hard work, proper training, and character development across Bergen, Passaic, and Morris Counties.
Certified Trainers
Years of Experience
Dedicated Trainers
SERVING SUSSEX COUNTY WITH THE BASKETBALL FACTORY IN AAU NJ
Kevin Houston has more than 20 years of experience as a player, trainer, and trainer. He focuses on developing young athletes into skilled basketball players with strong fundamentals, work ethic, and character through proven European training methods that emphasize discipline and proper technique.
OUR TRAINERING TEAM
KEVIN HOUSTON
Director
"Hard work, discipline, and proper training build champions on and off the court."
With over 20 years of experience as a player, trainer, and trainer, Kevin Houston brings proven basketball development methods to Sparta, NJ. His European training approach emphasizes skill development, work ethic, and discipline—transforming young athletes into confident, fundamentally-sound players. As the founder and director of The Basketball Factory, Kevin has built a youth basketball program where proper training meets character building. Parents trust Kevin because he focuses on developing not just basketball skills, but the discipline, work ethic, and character traits that help young athletes succeed in all areas of life.
Training Philosophy
Every player has potential. Through discipline, hard work, and proper training methodology, we develop skilled athletes who compete with confidence and integrity.
KENNA SQUIER
Director | Trainer
"Development is a journey built on hard work, discipline, and dedication."
Kenna Squier brings exceptional leadership and training expertise to The Basketball Factory. As a former standout player at NJIT and current director at The Basketball Factory, Kenna combines her collegiate playing experience with proven training methods to develop well-rounded athletes. Her expertise spans all age groups, from beginners learning fundamentals to advanced players refining their skills. Parents appreciate Kenna's holistic approach—she doesn't just build basketball skills, she nurtures confidence, work ethic, and character. Her dedication to skill development and character building makes her an invaluable mentor for young athletes throughout Sparta and the surrounding New Jersey communities.
Training Philosophy
Character and skill development go hand in hand. We build complete athletes through hard work, discipline, and proper training—preparing them for success in basketball and life.
PEACE BAKINAHE
Trainer
"Technical skill and sportsmanship create champions who win with integrity."
Trainer Peace Bakinahe is a cornerstone of the The Basketball Factory training staff, bringing a unique combination of technical expertise and exceptional sportsmanship to every training session. Peace specializes in developing athletes at all skill levels into disciplined, fundamentally-sound players who respect the game and their opponents. His methodical approach to skill development ensures that players build a rock-solid foundation through hard work and proper training. Parents throughout Sparta and Sussex County trust Peace because he creates a positive, encouraging environment where young athletes thrive. His ability to connect with players and instill strong work ethic makes him a cherished mentor whose impact extends far beyond the basketball court.
Training Philosophy
Excellence comes from mastering fundamentals through discipline and hard work. We build players who respect the game, their teammates, and themselves—creating athletes with strong character and skills.
LEE VAN HORN
Trainer
"Strategic preparation and methodical development create unstoppable athletes."
Lee Van Horn brings years of training experience and a strategic training mindset to The Basketball Factory. Known throughout New Jersey for his methodical approach to skill development and game preparation, Lee has helped countless athletes elevate their game through hard work and discipline. His systematic training methods break down complex basketball concepts into manageable steps, ensuring every player—from beginner to advanced—experiences measurable improvement. Parents choose Lee because he combines technical expertise with exceptional communication, helping young athletes understand not just what to do, but why it works. His commitment to proper training and proven track record of player development have made him a trusted name in Northern New Jersey youth basketball.
Training Philosophy
Success is in the details. Strategic preparation, hard work, and methodical skill development build confident players—we teach athletes to master every aspect of their game through discipline and dedication.
KYLE KIELTY
Trainer
"Motivation and expertise unlock potential. Every athlete has greatness within."
Kyle Kielty is a dedicated trainer at The Basketball Factory, renowned for his motivational approach and deep expertise in basketball fundamentals and advanced techniques. His high-energy training style keeps players engaged and excited about improvement, while his systematic methods ensure consistent skill development. Kyle specializes in helping young athletes build the confidence and work ethic needed to succeed. Parents throughout Sparta and the surrounding areas seek out Kyle because he creates an encouraging, positive environment where players feel empowered to work hard and grow. His proven ability to develop both basketball skills and mental toughness makes him an invaluable asset to the The Basketball Factory training staff and the families we serve.
Training Philosophy
Motivation meets hard work. We combine inspiration with proven training techniques to develop players who compete with confidence, discipline, and dedication.
TAYLOR LANGAN
Trainer
"Resilience and excellence—building athletes who thrive under pressure."
Taylor Langan brings exceptional energy and expertise to the The Basketball Factory training staff. As a former collegiate athlete, Taylor offers invaluable firsthand knowledge of what hard work and dedication can achieve. Her training sessions focus on developing both physical skills and mental resilience through discipline and proper training, ensuring players are prepared for the challenges of competitive basketball. Taylor's unique ability to connect with athletes and create a supportive yet demanding training environment has made her a favorite among players and parents throughout Northern New Jersey. Her focus on building confidence, work ethic, and mental toughness helps young athletes overcome obstacles and develop the character needed for success in basketball and life.
Training Philosophy
Mental and physical resilience come from hard work and discipline. We prepare players for every challenge through proper training—on the court and in life.
BEN MELVILLE
Trainer
"Enthusiasm and expertise—a combination that develops champions."
Ben Melville delivers high-quality training sessions at The Basketball Factory, combining infectious enthusiasm with deep basketball expertise. His playing experience and passion for the game shape his training philosophy, which emphasizes both skill development and basketball intelligence. Ben has a special talent for making training fun and engaging while maintaining high standards and building strong work ethic. Parents throughout Sparta appreciate Ben's ability to connect with young athletes and inspire them to love the game while working hard to improve. His positive energy and proven training methods create an environment where players thrive, develop confidence, discipline, and strong fundamental skills.
Training Philosophy
Passion for the game combined with hard work builds successful players. We develop skilled athletes who genuinely love basketball and compete with dedication—creating players with strong fundamentals and character.
JOE MORICI
Trainer
"Experience and insight create disciplined, confident athletes."
Joe Morici is a seasoned trainer at The Basketball Factory, bringing comprehensive basketball knowledge and a hands-on training style that produces results. With extensive playing experience and years of training success, Joe knows what it takes to develop athletes through hard work and proper training. His training sessions emphasize skill refinement, tactical understanding, and mental preparation—the three pillars of sound basketball development. Parents choose Joe because he provides clear, actionable feedback that helps players improve rapidly while building the confidence and work ethic needed to succeed. His influence extends beyond basketball fundamentals; Joe shapes young athletes into disciplined, confident individuals ready to excel in all areas of life.
Training Philosophy
Professional experience informs proper youth development. We teach players to think strategically and work hard—developing basketball IQ, strong fundamentals, and character.
SAMBA DIALLO
Trainer
"Energy, expertise, and dedication—developing athletes who excel in sports and life."
Samba Diallo brings a unique blend of high energy and basketball expertise to The Basketball Factory. Known for his dynamic training methods and exceptional ability to engage young athletes, Samba focuses on developing complete players with strong basketball skills and outstanding work ethic through discipline and dedication. His personalized training approach ensures that each athlete receives the individual attention and guidance needed to improve their game. Parents throughout Northern New Jersey appreciate Samba's dedication to both skill development and character building—he doesn't just teach basketball, he helps develop better people through hard work and proper training. Samba's impact on the basketball community is profound, as he consistently produces athletes who excel in sports, academics, and leadership.
Training Philosophy
Dynamic training, hard work, and personal attention build strong athletes. We develop players with solid fundamentals and character—athletes who succeed through dedication and discipline.
OUR TRAINERING PHILOSOPHY
At The Basketball Factory, we believe in developing the complete athlete. Our Sparta, NJ basketball trainers focus on skill development, character building, discipline, and work ethic. We create a supportive yet demanding environment where players can grow, learn from mistakes, and develop both as basketball players and as individuals of strong character.
Every trainer on our staff is committed to mentoring young athletes and helping them succeed through hard work and proper training. We emphasize teamwork, discipline, and a strong work ethic while teaching fundamental basketball skills and fostering a genuine love for the game. Our trainers have been where your child wants to go—they've experienced high-level basketball and understand what it takes to succeed.
Our youth basketball program in Sparta has helped countless athletes develop into confident, capable individuals who excel in all areas of life. We focus on building strong fundamentals, character, and the mental toughness needed to succeed—skills that translate far beyond the basketball court into academics, careers, and personal relationships.
READY TO JOIN THE TBF FAMILY?
Train with trainers who have walked your path and are dedicated to your success. Register today for tryouts and become part of a legacy of excellence in Sparta, NJ AAU basketball.
Have questions about our training staff or programs?
Contact us at [email protected] or call 1 (909) 577-9171
Located at 38 Station Rd, Sparta, NJ 07871 • Serving the Sussex County community