A Letter to Every Parent Invested in Their Child's Future:
Recently, we received a message from a parent. She expressed concern about the future of our club amidst a competitive landscape, but she also shared why her family is staying - because we "give kids of all skill levels an equal opportunity to improve," and because she trusts our character and our genuine commitment to player development.
Her words struck a deep chord and reinforced the very reason I founded East Bay Waves.
In today's youth sports culture, which is so often driven by a "win-now" mentality, we see too many clubs focus on recruiting top talent to build a seemingly impressive "championship team." They are looking for the next star. We, however, are dedicated to developing every single child who walks through our doors, whether they are a beginner or a top talent.
This is what makes us different. We are not just another AAU club. We are a growth community, built on the twin pillars of character and skill.
My Story: Why I Chose a Different Path, From the Pros to Our Community
My journey in basketball began as an assistant coach for a CBA professional team, the Beijing Olympians. It was a privilege to serve as the skills trainer for Sun Yue (former L.A. Laker) for four years, working closely with him on his path to the NBA. During my career, I had the incredible fortune to learn from legendary coaches like Phil Jackson and Mike D'Antoni, and my work took me around the world, from the highest levels of the NBA to professional leagues in Asia and Europe.
I witnessed how basketball operates at its peak. But more importantly, I understood that behind the bright lights and championship trophies lies a foundation built on countless hours of perfecting fundamentals, and an unwavering commitment to discipline, teamwork, and a resilient spirit.
When I returned to the Bay Area to dedicate myself to youth basketball, I saw a troubling trend: a culture that rushes to label kids as "elite" or "not good enough," that overemphasizes winning and losing, and in doing so, neglects the most valuable lessons the game can teach.
This is not the basketball I know, and it is not the true spirit of the game.
I was reminded of Kobe Bryant's philosophy when he coached his daughter's team: "We teach all the basics, fundamentals... Patience. You've got to be patient... Let them develop, let them grow." This perfectly captures my own coaching philosophy.
I founded East Bay Waves to bring the most valuable lessons I learned in the world of professional basketball—a profound respect for fundamentals and a deep focus on character—to the next generation in our community. I wanted to build a place where:
Effort is valued more than talent. We believe every child's potential is limitless. If they are willing to put in the work, we have the professional expertise to guide them in maximizing that potential.
The process is more important than the outcome. A game's result is temporary, but the discipline, sportsmanship, leadership, respect, and gratitude learned in practice will last a lifetime.
Community feels more like family. We are more than just teammates. We are a supportive family that grows together, and we care about each child's well-being on and off the court.
At East Bay Waves, we will never sacrifice a single player's development for the sake of building a "winning" roster. Our winning rosters are built organically with our player development. My coaching staff and I bring years of experience from the NBA, European/Asian pro teams, and the Chinese National Team. We know how to translate the highest level of basketball knowledge into patient, caring, and effective instruction for every child.
If you are looking for a place where your child can not only elevate their skills but also build character, learn to face challenges, and find a true sense of belonging, then we welcome you to the East Bay Waves family.
Our Commitment: At East Bay Waves, Development Always Wins
Together, let's bring the good waves to life.
Coach Michael
