more than
Basketball
On the Court, Off the Streets
A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.
Better Chances' Mentorship & Basketball Program is more than basketball. We strive to prevent unhealthy lifestyles, gun & gang violence, drug addiction, and the imprisonment of our youth by helping them develop the skills they need to succeed in life. We understand introducing them to sports is a great way to help them build character and teach them lifelong skills such as leadership, communication, self-advocacy, and problem-solving. WE care about our community and want to engage the children in positive play in a safe space. We encourage them to work hard, try new things, and make long-lasting friendships, all while learning to play and love the game of basketball.
So calling all beginners, hoopers and ballers! Looking to improve your game, have fun, make friends, and be a part of a safe mind enriching community? Come join NW Simba's basketball team!
Let the girls, be girls
and the boys,
be boys!
Good Times!
Building Community!
Creating Memories!
Program & Registration Information
Year-Round for Girls and Boys: Grades 4th - 8th
Locations & Times:
Charles Jordan Community Center
900 N. Foss Ave Portland,OR 97203
Tuesday & Friday - 5:45 pm - 7:30 pm
WINTER PROGRAM - TUESDAY JAN. 07, 2025 - FRIDAY MARCH 14,2025
WINTER SEASON - REGISTER HERE - PAY WITH CASH,ZELLE OR CASH APP
Meet the Mentors & Coaches
Coach Abdul A.
Head Coach & Mentor
Coach Abdul loves sports! His two favorite sports are basketball and golf, followed by soccer. His favorite color is black. He feels privileged to work with the youth. He understands it is important for the youth to have good role models and safe spaces to thrive. He enjoys spending time with his family, telling stories and making people laugh.
Ms. Talietha M.
Assistant Coach & Mentor
Ms. T enjoys being part of the support system for the Youth while they grow and learn to navigate life. Her favorite sport is volleyball, and her favorite color is red. She believes sports are fun and all Youth should have the opportunity to experience being part of a team. While building lifelong skills, making friends and having fun. She enjoys spending time with family, cooking, gardening, writing poems and reading.
Coach Raul R.
Assistant Coach & Mentor
Coach Raul born and raised in Portland Oregon. His favorite sport is basketball and his favorite color is blue. As a youth he participated in multiple sports; baseball, football, basketball, and track & field. He started out playing basketball, he later found a passion for football. Which led him to play football at the College of the Siskiyous. While continuing to follow his passion for sports he began coaching and mentoring youth athletes while attending Portland State University where he graduated in communications and child development. Coach Raul understands the importance of building confidence and team work during childhood and implements these values in his work. He loves spending time with his family. During his free time, he likes trying new foods and exploring the outdoors in the PNW.
Parent Volunteers Assistant Coaches & Mentors
Their continued support and dedication help us, make the Basketball and Mentorship program a success.
Thank you for all that you do!