Our Co-Founder duo is living proof of Hoops and Beyond
Kendal “Ken” Shell, began playing basketball at an early age and was taught the game on & off the court by his two older brothers. They showed him the blueprint and he wants to return the favor to the masses. He is fortunate to have two parents who became the "neighborhood mom and dad", as they looked out for everybody and still do. They showed him how important it was to be there for people, especially the youth, at a time in their life when they need it most, even if they're not your own. They taught how to love first. Ken is prideful about his St. Louis upbringing because it has shaped him into who he is today. Ken played at the University of Minnesota learning from Tubby Smith and Richard Pitino. Shell finished his career at The University of Minnesota with degrees in Marketing, Leadership, Sports Management and Master's work in Sports Management. He's put extreme value in all of his relationships thus far. He wants to share all of his learnings and resources with others that needs them most. His goal is to create platforms and gateways for the next generation to thrive and make a better situation for themselves no matter where they come from. His love and ability to interact with people from all walks of life has led him onto his journey of giving back the game and pouring into this next generation.
Rayshawn “Ray” Simmons, European professional basketball player, graduated from Central Michigan University. The famous Pop star, Nelly, once said “Use the game, don’t let it use you”. Ray grew up in the same treacherous neighborhoods that Nelly did. Those words really stuck with him. Imagine if there were more people that had an impact on the youth lives. The impact on Ray’s life was monstrous. He used the game of basketball to get a degree from a four-year university. After college he went on to play in Europe in the following countries; Czech Republic, Hungary, Australia, Germany, Belgium. In these countries he’s built a foundation overseas with other Americans who were playing in Europe as well and with the domestic people in those countries. Basketball helped show Ray the entire world and he wants to give the same opportunity to kids that are in the same position he was. Ray is something “The Game” has been missing.