Since 2017
Eight players.
One Sunday night.
Players First started with a single session in 2017. Today it's a basketball network with its own court, gym and school programs.
Our story
Put the player first
Founder Mike Torres saw too many young players miss out on quality coaching, a clear pathway and people who genuinely backed them. He started Players First to change that, with one rule in the name.
That first Sunday night session had eight players. Word spread, classes filled, and schools came on board. Along the way, Players First kids have gone on to US high schools and college programs, and many have come back as coaches. That's what we're about: better players, better people, and a place to grow.
- 2017
Players First is founded
A Sunday night session with eight players in Coburg North.
- 2021
HSBN launches
The High School Basketball Network brings basketball and personal development into local high schools: Coburg, Preston, Northcote and Brunswick.
- Schools
Into primary schools
Active Start brings coached sessions to Newlands, Coburg North and Carlton primary schools.
- Home
Our own court and gym
The academy and Athletic Performance move into our home court and performance gym at 27 Acheson Place, Coburg North.
- USA
Players reach America
Alumni go on to US high schools and college programs, and Players First runs tours to compete in the US.
- 2026
The world stage
Alumnus Justin Akengbowa plays at adidas Eurocamp and NBA Basketball Without Borders, and the academy moves to a full year-round season.
The basketball court is our classroom, where life skills are developed every day.Mike Torres, Founder & Head Coach