Today we’d like to introduce you to Daylon Giddens.
Hi Daylon, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I started Hoop Therapy Basketball Academy in 2016 because I saw how important it was to help the next generation of players break bad habits on and off the court. Over the years before I got started, I attended many basketball games on all levels and it concerned me to see poor habits in players with so much athleticism but couldn’t finish at the rim, or a player that could shoot but didn’t have proper footwork to get the shot off in time, and of course, the list goes on and on. Based on these observations, I felt the need to help players polish up their skill sets but knew that in order for this business to work, I had to give 100%. So, I decided to start brainstorming business names that would align with my vision. I knew the word “Hoop” would be incorporated somehow, and then to complete the name I asked myself, “Why am I here?” My goal was to help players break bad habits and heal them from their playing disorders, so the word “Therapy” came to mind, hence the birth of Hoop Therapy Basketball Academy.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Well, I definitely wish things were a lot smoother but the element of time is my biggest challenge! I work a full-time job, attend school, father two young daughters, and run my basketball business, so the struggle is real, but I love the challenge because it teaches me to value the time that I do have and not waste any moment!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Basketball is a science; therefore, I feel it is important that each player understands the technical aspect of the game which will provide them with more knowledge to advance their skills. I focus more on educating players rather than just showing them different skills and not actually breaking down “what” is being displayed.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Taking risks is more of a mindset. It’s about confidence and knowing the consequences of the situation. Starting Hoop Therapy Basketball Academy was a risk for me because I didn’t have the finances, training facilities, or the necessary equipment, but I did have the confidence to get started and a basketball. I used what I had at the time, so I accepted the risks that come with this type of business and understood that not all players will be committed to the sport. Taking these risks has strengthened my faith as scripture teaches us that faith without works is dead.
Contact Info:
- Website: HoopTherapyAcademy.com
- Instagram: HoopTherapyBasketballAcademy
- Facebook: @PlayHoopsHard
- Twitter: @DGHoopTherapy
Image Credits
Hoop Therapy Basketball Academy Photography
