More than
Basketball
"On the Court, Off the Streets."
More than
Basketball
"On the Court, Off the Streets."
A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.
Better Chances' Mentorship & Basketball Program, On the Court , Off the Streets, goes beyond just the game; it is a transformative initiative aimed at steering the youth away from unhealthy lifestyles, gun and gang violence, drug addiction, and incarceration. We are dedicated to equipping young people with essential life skills that pave the way for their success. By introducing them to sports, we foster character development and instill lifelong skills such as leadership, communication, self-advocacy, and problem-solving. Our commitment to the community drives us to provide children with a safe space for positive play. We encourage them to work hard, embrace new experiences, and forge lasting friendships, all while cultivating a passion for the game of basketball.
Attention all beginners, hoopers, and ballers! Are you ready to elevate your game, have a blast, make new friends, and become part of a supportive, enriching community? Join the NW Simbas basketball team and experience community!
Program & Registration Information
Registration is closed for the winter season.
Year-Round Boys Basketball: Grades 5th - 8th
Locations
Charles Jordan Community Center
900 N. Foss Ave Portland,OR 97203
Practice is held at least 2 times a week for each team.
Winter Season 25' - 26' begins WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 05, 2025 - SATURDAY MARCH 14,2025
Winter Season REGISTER HERE - pay with cash, zelle or cash app
Let the girls, be girls
Good Times!
Building Community!
Creating Memories!
Meet the Mentors & Coaches
Coach Abdul, originally from Somalia, is truly passionate about sports, with basketball and golf topping his list of favorites, closely followed by soccer. His favorite color is black. He feels privileged to work with youth, understanding that providing them with positive role models and safe spaces is crucial for their growth and development. As a dedicated volunteer, Coach Abdul is committed to fostering an environment where young athletes can thrive, build confidence, and learn essential life skills through sports.
Outside of coaching, he enjoys spending quality time with his family, sharing stories, and making people laugh, creating memories that last a lifetime. His enthusiasm and unwavering commitment to the community inspire those around him, making him a beloved figure among players and families alike. Coach Abdul's genuine care for his athletes and their well-being shines through in every interaction, reinforcing the importance of sports as a tool for personal and community development.
Coach C has been a dedicated volunteer with Better Chances since the start of 2025. He is passionate about empowering youth and takes great joy in giving back to the community. As the coach of the 5th and 6th-grade team, he not only shares his knowledge of the game but also instills important life lessons in his players. Originally hailing from Argentina, Coach C played rugby during his youth, which has shaped his understanding of teamwork and perseverance.
Recognizing the vital role that STEM education plays in unlocking opportunities for young people, Coach C is focused on helping Better Chances expand and improve its initiatives to incorporate STEM programs. He believes that fostering an interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics can provide youth with valuable skills and insights that will serve them well in the future.
Now a proud father of two, he brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to his coaching role, inspiring the next generation to strive for excellence both on and off the field. By advocating for the integration of STEM into the organization’s offerings, Coach C is committed to helping youth grow, explore their potential, and prepare for a bright future.
Coach Andre is a dedicated volunteer with extensive experience working within the community and with youth. With a lifelong passion for basketball, he has not only played the sport throughout his youth but also enjoyed a successful professional career, traveling and living in various parts of the world. This diverse background has enriched his perspective on the importance of sports as a vehicle for personal growth and connection.
Understanding that a strong foundation and a supportive community are crucial for young people to become the best versions of themselves, Coach Andre strives to create an environment that fosters growth both on and off the court. He emphasizes the values of teamwork, resilience, and self-discipline, encouraging his athletes to embrace these principles in their everyday lives.
Beyond coaching, Coach Andre is deeply committed to mentoring his players, helping them navigate the challenges they face and inspiring them to dream big. His positive influence and unwavering dedication make him a cherished figure in the community, as he continues to empower the next generation of leaders through the love of basketball.
Ms. Talietha takes great joy in being an integral part of the support system for youth as they grow and learn to navigate "growing up". As a child volleyball was her favorite sport. Her favorite color is red. She believes that sports are not only enjoyable but also essential in fostering teamwork and collaboration. She is passionate about ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to be part of a commuinty, where they can build lifelong skills, forge lasting friendships, and have fun along the way.
In her personal life, she cherishes time spent with her family, delighting in cooking delicious meals, nurturing her garden, and expressing her creativity through writing poetry and reading. Her commitment to nurturing youth and her diverse interests make her a beloved mentor, inspiring those around her to embrace their passions and pursue their dreams.
Their continued support and dedication help us, make the Basketball and Mentorship program a success.
Thank you for all that you do!