AJ Mandani has played the game at the highest levels. From college basketball in Missouri to pro leagues in Indonesia and Thailand, his journey was full of highs and lows. But after 14 years away, missing birthdays, holidays, and milestones, AJ found a new reason to come home.
That reason was family. More specifically, his nephew, who’s on the autism spectrum. Meeting him shifted AJ’s priorities. It was no longer just about chasing dreams overseas. It was about using what he learned through basketball to build something real back home.
Now based in Brampton, AJ leads Mandani Academy and the I Am Powerful Athletic Autism Awareness Allstars Program. His mission is to develop not just players, but people. Every drill is more than a play. Every huddle is a moment to teach accountability, resilience, and care.
“We’re not just here to win championships,” AJ says. “We want our kids to win in life.”
He teaches the value of hard work, of being present, of doing the little things right. From skills sessions to free autism awareness programs, AJ is shaping a culture where every young person feels seen and supported.
For him, it’s simple. Build the community. Build the youth. And make sure no one gets left behind.
Because at the end of the day, the ball will stop bouncing. What matters is who you’ve become when it does.
