About Us

Meet the Team Behind the Game

Man in white t-shirt holding a basketball on an indoor court with blue walls and padded posts.

Our Story

Built on Passion. Driven by Purpose.

Players First Basketball began as a small training session on Sunday nights with just 8 players. What started as a passion project quickly grew into a program recognized for delivering some of the best basketball knowledge and skills training available. Nearly eight years later, Players First Basketball has grown to train over 500 athletes.

Our program’s success speaks for itself: 4 players have gone directly to U.S. universities. 7 players have completed high school in the U.S. A U.S. tour is scheduled for April 2024. At Players First, our approach is simple but effective: Focus on fundamentals and game-ready skills. Simplify the game and teach players the why behind every move and decision. Emphasize life skills that go beyond the court.

Our greatest impact comes from our ability to connect with young athletes, helping them grow both as players and individuals. At Players First Basketball, it’s not just about the game – it’s about empowering kids to succeed in life.

The Basketball court is our classroom,
where life skills are developed everyday.

Mike Torres

Mike Torres

Founder & Head Coach

Man in teal shirt speaking with woman in gym setting with motivational teamwork text on wall.

Our Values

1

Built on the Fundamentals

We believe strong fundamentals are the foundation of every great player. That’s why we focus on teaching the core skills and basketball IQ needed to compete, improve, and grow with confidence.

2

Player-Centered Coaching

Every athlete is different. Our coaches tailor their approach to meet each player's needs—challenging them when they’re ready and supporting them every step of the way.

3

Growth On and Off the Court

We’re committed to developing life skills alongside basketball skills. Through teamwork, discipline, and leadership, we help young athletes grow into well-rounded individuals prepared for challenges beyond the game.

Group of teenage boys in Northcote High basketball jerseys posing indoors, some making the 'W' hand sign.

Building confident, skilled ballers of all ages

Coaches

Our Team

Contact Us
Mike Torres
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Mike Torres

Founder & Head Coach

Experience

  • BigV Youth League Head Coach Coburg 2021
  • Diamond Valley 2022 & 2023
  • Basketball Victoria State Program SDP Hub Lead 2018-2021
  • Vic Metro Assistant Coach 2020-2022

Bio

Born and raised in the vibrant yet challenging neighborhood of Washington Heights, New York, I grew up navigating the pressures of peer influence, gang violence, and drugs.

Basketball became my refuge—a passion that not only saved my life but also taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, discipline, and teamwork. In 2017, I founded Players First Basketball to create the kind of environment I wish I’d had growing up. Our mission is to provide athletes of all levels with professional coaching, skill development, and—most importantly—the mentorship and support needed to excel both on and off the court.

At Players First Basketball, we strive to nurture a love for the game while equipping players with the tools to thrive in sports and in life.