The gym buzzes with energy as Coach Andrew calls his team together. “Hard work on three—1, 2, 3!” echoes through the room, setting the tone for yet another intense, transformative training session at Top Tier Basketball. What started as a father’s simple desire to find meaningful basketball training for his young son has grown into a powerhouse program that molds not only athletes but young individuals with grit and focus.
Building the Foundation: A Father’s Determination
Coach Andrew’s journey into basketball coaching wasn’t born out of convenience but necessity. Frustrated by the lack of quality training programs that charged premium prices but lacked substance, Andrew and his wife—both with rich basketball backgrounds—decided to take matters into their own hands. “It seemed like a money grab. The focus wasn’t on developing athletes,” Andrew recalls.
What began with training sessions for their son and his team quickly snowballed. Their first team clinched the Grade Four CBL Championship, igniting interest from other parents and young athletes. From these humble beginnings, Top Tier Basketball was born.
Focusing on Progress Over Comparison
One of Coach Andrew’s core philosophies is simple yet profound: “You’re your own competition.” Recognizing that young athletes often get discouraged by comparing themselves to others, Andrew teaches his players to focus on individual growth.
“Kids come in, see high-level talent, and sometimes don’t come back because they feel they can’t hang,” he explains. “I tell them to track their own progress. Compete against yourself.”
This mindset has been a game-changer for Top Tier athletes, allowing them to grow at their own pace while celebrating personal milestones.
Relentless Commitment to Excellence
Top Tier isn’t just about showing up to practice; it’s about being all in. Andrew’s dedication goes beyond the court. After every session, he meticulously reviews recordings of the practices, taking notes on each player’s performance. This individualized approach ensures that every athlete receives tailored feedback to improve their skills.
“No one’s tracking progress the way we do,” Andrew says. “The results speak for themselves. Our kids are constantly getting better, and we’re always in championship games.”
The Power of Basketball as a Tool for Life
While Top Tier strives for excellence on the court, Andrew emphasizes the importance of using basketball as a tool for broader success.
“The likelihood of all kids making it to the NBA or Division One is slim,” he admits. “But basketball can still open doors—whether it’s getting an education, traveling the world, or working as a coach or physiotherapist.”
This balanced perspective helps parents and athletes alike see the bigger picture, making Top Tier more than just a basketball program—it’s a life-changing experience.
Overcoming Challenges and Staying the Course
Starting Top Tier wasn’t without its hurdles. Launching during COVID-19 came with restrictions on gym spaces and limited interaction. Additionally, breaking into a close-knit basketball community that values seniority posed its own challenges.
“We didn’t know a lot of people in the basketball community at first, so it was about building relationships and gaining respect,” Andrew shares.
Yet, through persistence, passion, and a strong support system of parents and coaches, Top Tier has not only endured but thrived.
What Sets Top Tier Apart
As a non-profit organization, Top Tier Basketball isn’t driven by profit margins but by purpose. Andrew’s vision is clear: to provide accessible, high-quality training without breaking the bank.
“Our commitment to the kids and the game is unmatched,” he states. “We’re ten toes down—five days a week in the gym, eating, sleeping, and breathing basketball.”
A Heartfelt Thank You
Coach Andrew’s success wouldn’t be possible without a strong community. From parents to partner leagues like CBL, OB, and Phoenix League, Andrew expresses gratitude for the collective effort that makes Top Tier shine.
“Thank you to all the coaches, parents, and organizations who support what we do,” he says. “It’s a team effort, on and off the court.”
Transforming Lives Through Basketball
For Coach Andrew, Top Tier Basketball isn’t just about winning games; it’s about creating champions in life. Whether it’s teaching a perfect defensive slide, inspiring a player to aim high, or simply showing a kid they belong, the program is a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance.
As Andrew often says, “Focus on getting better every day. That’s how you win—not just in basketball but in life.”
Top Tier Basketball isn’t just a program—it’s a movement, led by a coach who truly cares.
