Gil Basketball Academy to Celebrate ‘Court Heroes’ at Awards Banquet Set for March 19, 2022

  Sponsorships Now Available to Support Gala Event and Its Cause. 

Salinas, CA, October 18, 2021 — Gil Basketball Academy (GBA) will present its Court Heroes 12th Anniversary Awards Banquet on March 19, 2022, in Salinas. Sponsorships are now available to support this gala event and its cause. 

The Court Heroes Award is given to someone who is heroic, exceptional, respectful and outstanding and in the community. This event includes a live band and DJ, no-host bar, dinner, dancing and silent auction, with prizes ranging from a paint night with Coach Jose Gil to getaway trips, tickets to Disneyland, and much more. 

The awards banquet will be held from 5:30 - 11 p.m. Saturday, March 19, 2022, at Salinas PAL Center, 100 Howard St., Salinas. Tickets, $65 general and $55 for GBA parents, are available at https://gbacelebratingourheros2022.eventbrite.com . For further information, please contact Coach Gil at 831-710-1499. 

Sponsorship packages are available at a variety of levels, starting with the Presenting Sponsor at $10,000;  $5,000 Gold Sponsor, $2,500 Silver Sponsor, $2,000 Bronze Sponsor;  $1,000 Donor and $500 Sponsor. 

All sponsorship levels includes seating for you and your guests, ad in the event program and other amenities, depending on the level of sponsorship. For example, the Presenting Sponsor will receive three tables of 10/VIP seating, special recognition at event and sign on table with company name, full-page (8.5-inch-by-11-inch) ad in event program, signage throughout the event
and recognition in all printed materials and advertising. The basic level, $500, receives a table for four
and a half-page ad in the event program. 

Ads are also available separately in the event program, starting at $500 for a half-page ad (8.5-inch-by-5-inch). For more information on advertising, contact Marci Bracco Cain at marci@chatterboxpublicrelations.com  by Jan. 4, 2022, so that your company can be included in the materials as soon as possible. 

About Gil Basketball Academy

The Gil Basketball Academy was formed to promote the sport of basketball in East Salinas, as well as the overall development of local student-athletes desiring to compete at the highest athletic levels of competition. GBA offers camps, clinics, and individual sessions teaching athletes the skills and techniques of shooting, passing, dribbling, rebounding, and defense. The athletes will be coached by Jose Gil and other qualified and experienced coaches. GBA is about teaching not only basketball, but this academy will build confidence and character in all GBA members while having fun. 

The vision of the Gil Basketball Academy was born out of the belief that one of the most effective ways to strengthen a community is for its youth to be surrounded by positive adult role models, positive peer influences, and immersed in meaningful and constructive activities. As such, GBA’s mission is to support the youth of Salinas “Shoot for and Reach” their positive goals by participating in organized basketball camps, clinics, college tours, motivational speaker forums, field trips and trips beyond Salinas. 

GBA’s objective is to target boys and girls as young as 4 all the way to 17 years of age. GBA aims to “hook” kids beginning at a young age and sustain them throughout their schooling years. We also hope to combat obesity and diabetes by providing organized physical activities and promoting healthy eating habits.  At the present time, there are over 450 kids in our academy! 

Using Project Cornerstone’s research-based developmental assets approach as a guiding framework, we also hope to help our youth build the developmental internal and external assets they need in order to grow up to be caring, competent, responsible, and resilient.  The educational component of GBA is what our youth needs at this present time of turmoil.  We truly believe that this year’s homicides in Salinas could have been prevented if a program like ours was in their lives and someone showed them that the community cares about them. 

One of the primary goals is indeed to teach youth about every facet of the game of basketball. The larger goal of GBA is to teach our youth how to become healthy, productive, and contributing citizens of their community by exposing them to life beyond Salinas by offering our World Tours. 

Gil Basketball Academy1522

 Constitution Blvd., Suite 213,

Salinas, CA

(831) 710-1499

www.gilbasketballacademy.com

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
The Buzz PR LLC
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.gilbasketballacademy.com

Gil Basketball Academy Basketball Drills and Instructional Videos Now Available on YouTube

 Due to restrictions necessitated by the pandemic, in lieu of in-person instruction, Gil Basketball Academy has posted a number of instructional basketball videos on YouTube. 

Salinas, CA, October 30, 2020 — Due to restrictions necessitated by the pandemic, in lieu of in-person instruction,  Gil Basketball Academy has posted a number of instructional basketball videos on YouTube. 

The videos cover all aspects of playing basketball, including both individual and team drills on offense, defense, shooting, dribbling, passing and rebounding, footwork and handwork. Most of the videos are between 2 and 4 minutes long, with detailed instruction from Coach Jose Gil, co-founder of the academy. 

Access to the videos is free at https://www.youtube.com/user/GBASalinas.

About Gil Basketball Academy

Gil Basketball Academy was founded by Jose Gil and Eva Silva in 2009, with the goal of providing local boys and girls ages 4-17 of all skill levels the opportunity to learn and play basketball. The Academy, which averages 400 attendees annually, offers regular basketball camps, clinics, field trips, world tours and individual one-on-one sessions that teach youths the skills and techniques of shooting, passing, dribbling, rebounding, and defense. They are coached by Jose Gil and other qualified and experienced volunteer coaches. The Academy’s “home court” is the gym at Alisal High School, where Gil is the Athletic Director. 

Although one of the primary goals of the Academy is to teach youth about every facet of the game of basketball, the larger goal is to teach local youth how to become healthy, productive, and contributing citizens of their community by exposing them to life beyond Salinas by offering tours to other countries. So far the academy has taken trips to New Zealand, Italy, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Mexico and Hawaii, and plans are underway to visit Peru, Miami and Colombia. 

Gil Basketball Academy

1522 Constitution Blvd., Suite 213,

Salinas, California 93905

(831) 905-1155

https://gilbasketballacademy.com

 

Contact:

Marci Bracco Cain

Chatterbox PR

Salinas, CA 93901

(831) 747-7455

https://gilbasketballacademy.com

Dynamic athletes, Local coach/Educator fill November ‘Ganas’ podcast schedule for Gil Basketball Academy

  Podcast Episodes Available on Apple 

Salinas, CA, October 27, 2020 — Interviewing two athletes from Stanford University who embrace issues of racial and social justice, along with a frontline coach and educator in Salinas, Gil Basketball Academy offers three new “Ganas — Leading from the Heart” podcasts for November. 

Designed to inspire today’s youth through unique views and perspectives on life, “Ganas” (which translates to “desire”) is recorded live from the family garage of Jose Gil and Eva Silva, co-founders of the academy that promotes the sport of basketball in East Salinas through camps, clinics, individual sessions and elite travel teams. But more than that, GBA builds confidence and character in a membership that exceeds 450 local kids ages 4 to 17. 

The “Ganas” podcast officially launched on Sept. 14, with past episodes available on Apple, or through the GBA website at www.gilbasketballacademy.com. 

On Nov. 2, Episode 6 features top national basketball recruit Isael “Isa” Silva, a dynamic point guard from Jesuit High School in Carmichael who committed to play at Stanford. Embracing his Latino heritage on and off the court, Silva is proud of his Latino heritage. The grandson of a bracero immigrant, he embraces the social media hashtag #wolfway, a nod to how wolves can positively impact the ecosystem around them. 

On Nov. 16, the “Ganas” team will interview track and field sensation Marcus Floyd, a sophomore at Stanford. Born and raised in Middleburg, Fla., Floyd was exposed to systemic racism at an early age. At Stanford he has participated in a number of causes to expose hatred and bigotry while enlightening people about the stark reality of being black in America. Floyd finished his first season as the No. 5 ranked freshman in Stanford history, while pursuing a degree in architectural engineering. 

On Nov. 30, the podcast crew welcomes local educator, coach and super volunteer Amparo Saldana. As a first generation immigrant born in Mexico to a family of 13, Saldana grew up learning daily about struggle and sacrifice. Arriving in the United States at age 8 with the goal of attending college, Amparo graduated from California State University-Fresno in 1999, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Biology. She has been an elementary school teacher, school trustee and a longtime coach and board member for Gil Basketball Academy in Salinas. 

The idea for a podcast grew from Gil’s growing frustration in not being able to completely connect with and inspire his GBA kids during the pandemic. 

“You have to think outside the box,” said the longtime coach and athletic director at Alisal High School. “I was used to having hundreds of kids together at one time, and now I have to figure out new ways to have an impact.” 

While the couple have little experience in media (and none in podcasting), they invested in the technology needed to turn the family garage into a functioning studio. 

“Ganas” podcasts (including video with guests appearing via Zoom) span 30 to 45 minutes, and include topics such as sports, health, fitness, leadership, community and more. 

Contact: 
Marci Bracco Cain 
Chatterbox PR 
Salinas, CA 93901 
(831) 747-7455 
https://gilbasketballacademy.com/

Gil Basketball Academy continues podcast series ‘Ganas — Leading from the Heart’ with new guests Podcast Available on Apple

  Interviewing the city of Salinas’ most dynamic soccer player and a doctor on the front lines of immigrant healthcare in Los Angeles, Gil Basketball Academy offers two exciting new “Ganas — Leading from the Heart” podcasts for October. 

Salinas, CA, September 28, 2020 — Interviewing the city of Salinas’ most dynamic soccer player and a doctor on the front lines of immigrant healthcare in Los Angeles, Gil Basketball Academy offers two exciting new “Ganas — Leading from the Heart” podcasts for October. 

Designed to inspire today’s youth through unique views and perspectives on life, “Ganas” (which translates to “desire”) is recorded live from the family garage of Jose Gil and Eva Silva, co-founders of the academy that promotes the sport of basketball in East Salinas through camps, clinics, individual sessions and elite travel teams. But more than that, GBA builds confidence and character in a membership that exceeds 450 local kids ages 4 to 17. 

The “Ganas” podcast officially launched on Sept. 14, with past episodes available on Apple, or through the GBA website at http://www.gilbasketballacademy.com. 

On Oct. 5, Episode 4 features professional soccer player David Estrada, who made his mark at Alisal High School before playing at UCLA and eventually the professional ranks of the MLS. Born in Michoacan, Mexico, Estrada was raised in Salinas. Drafted in 2010 by the Seattle Sounders of the MLS, Estrada excelled both on the field and off, winning Humanitarian of the Year while playing with New Mexico United in 2019. 

On Oct. 19, “Ganas” welcomes Dr. Gloria Sanchez, the daughter of a Mexican migrant laborer who now works toward breaking the cultural divide in medicine at Harbor UCLA Medical Center. A member of UCLA’s Center for the Study of Latino Health and Culture, Sanchez published a study revealing that while the Latino population has increased dramatically in the United States, the number of Latino physicians in relation to that population has declined. Her goal is to help improve that ratio as a key step to improving overall care. 

 The idea for a podcast grew from Gil’s growing frustration in not being able to completely connect with and inspire his GBA kids during the pandemic. 

“You have to think outside the box,” said the longtime coach and athletic director at Alisal High School. “I was used to having hundreds of kids together at one time, and now I have to figure out new ways to have an impact.” 

While the couple have little experience in media (and none in podcasting), they invested in the technology needed to turn the family garage into a functioning studio. 

“Ganas” podcasts (including video with guests appearing via Zoom) span 30 to 45 minutes, and include topics such as sports, health, fitness, leadership, community and more.

 Contact:

Marci Bracco Cain

Chatterbox PR

Salinas, CA 93901

(831) 747-7455

https://www.gilbasketballacademy.com/

Gil Basketball Academy’s launches podcast series ‘Ganas — Leading from the Heart’ on Sept. 14 Podcast Available on Apple

Turning a family garage into a state-of-the-art recording studio, Gil Basketball Academy has officially launched its podcast series called “Ganas — Leading from the Heart.”

Salinas, CA, September 08, 2020 - Turning a family garage into a state-of-the-art recording studio, Gil Basketball Academy has officially launched its podcast series called “Ganas — Leading from the Heart.”

Designed to inspire today’s youth through unique views and perspectives on life, “Ganas” (which translates to “desire”), will feature guests ranging from CEOs to spiritual leaders and pro athletes. It officially begins on Sept. 14 with the academy’s matriarch and co-founder Eva Silva as the first guest.

Silva and her husband Jose Gil formed the academy in 2009 to promote the sport of basketball in East Salinas through camps, clinics, individual sessions and elite travel teams. But more than that, GBA was designed to build confidence and character in a membership that exceeds 450 local kids ages 4 to 17.

The idea for a podcast grew from Gil’s growing frustration in not being able to completely connect with his kids during the pandemic.

“You have to think outside the box,” said the longtime coach and athletic director at Alisal High School. “I was used to having hundreds of kids together at one time, and now I have to figure out new ways to have an impact.”

While the couple have little experience in media (and none in podcasting), they invested in the technology needed to turn the family garage into a functioning studio.

“Ganas” podcasts (including video with guests appearing via Zoom) span 30 to 45 minutes, and include topics such as sports, health, fitness, leadership, community and more.

Silva will kick off the “Ganas” series by talking about her own inspirational life. Episode 1 is titled ‘Complete the circle’ by empowering young people.

Born in Mexico as the sixth of seven children to migrant worker parents, Silva moved to Salinas at age 7. She graduated from Alisal High School in 1990, later earning a degree in education from Stanford University as a first-generation college graduate. Silva married Gil in 1999, and the couple have three grown children. Silva also works as a college coordinator and mentor for migrant students at CSU-Monterey Bay.

September Podcast Schedule

Ganas: Leading from the Heart

Listen here https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ganas-leading-from-the-heart/id1529748465

Episode 1 (Sept. 14, 2020): ‘Completing the circle’ by empowering young people

Guest: Eva Silva, college coordinator/Gil Basketball Academy co-founder

Born in Mexico as the sixth of seven children to migrant worker parents, Eva Silva moved to Salinas, Calif., at age 7. She graduated from Alisal High School in 1990, later earning a degree in Human Biology and a a Master’s in Education from Stanford University as a first-generation college graduate. Silva married Jose Gil in 1999, and the couple have three grown children. In 2010 the couple co-founded Gil Basketball Academy to help empower youth by developing their athletic skills, leadership, work ethic, world view, and enhancing their commitment to the community. Silva also works as a college coordinator and mentor for undergraduate students at CSU-Monterey Bay.

Episode 2 (Sept. 14, 2020): Giving today’s youth opportunities to thrive

Guest: Jerome Williams, former NBA player

Drafted in the first round of the NBA draft in 1996 by the Detroit Pistons, Jerome Williams had a nine-year career with four teams, retiring in 2005 as a member of the Toronto Raptors. Nicknamed The Junkyard Dog by teammates impressed with his work ethic, Williams earned a scholarship to Georgetown University his junior year after not being drafted out of high school. Today, Williams turns that positiveness and energy into helping inspire today’s youth through the game of basketball. He is a global ambassador through the NBA’s Basketball Without Borders program, and is president of The Young3, which holds 3-on-3 tournaments for young people ages 9–14.

Episode 3 (Sept. 28, 2020): Resistance and faith: Leading in a time of turmoil

Guest: Pastor Artis L. Smith, New Hope Baptist Church

The Rev. Artis Smith joined New Hope Baptist Church in 1999 as Associate Minister, installed as pastor in 2005. He has spent 15 years in that role at the East Salinas church dedicated to servanthood and discipleship. Rev. Smith has helped lead a regional effort toward social justice. During the pandemic, he worked hard to keep the doors open for in-person services, honoring the church’s “always open” designation. He acknowledges that much has been done, but there is a greater work still to do, and by the grace of God, the church will continue to grow and prosper.

Listen here : https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ganas-leading-from-the-heart/id1529748465

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://gilbasketballacademy.com/

Gil Basketball Academy co-founder Jose Gil to launch podcast series ‘Ganas — Leading from the Heart’

People from Mexico have a certain way with words, using colorful expressions to grab our attention.

Salinas, CA, August 07, 2020 — People from Mexico have a certain way with words, using colorful expressions to grab our attention.

Take the word ganas. From the verb ganar, it literally translates to gain or win. But if coach Jose Gil were to urge members at his Gil Basketball Academy to “echarle ganas,” he’s pleading with them to show desire, to throw some life into it.

It’s with that sentiment in mind that Gil has launched a new podcast called “Ganas — Leading from the Heart.” The longtime coach and athletic director at Alisal High School, who co-founded Gil Basketball Academy more than 10 years ago with his wife Eva Silva, will begin programming on X(date here)X.

The couple formed the academy in 2009 to promote the sport of basketball in East Salinas through camps, clinics, individual sessions and elite travel teams. But more than that, GBA was designed to build confidence and character in a membership that exceeds 400 local kids ages 4 to 17.

The idea for a podcast grew from Gil’s growing frustration in not being able to completely connect with his kids during the pandemic.

“You have to think outside the box,” he said. “I was used to having hundreds of kids together at one time, and now I have to figure out new ways to have an impact.”

During the pandemic, Gil took to jogging near his home in Salinas, listening to various podcasts along the way.

“I thought, we have something here,” he said. “We have the audience, we have connections with people all around the world. We can tap into their expertise, and it becomes an easy way to connect.”

Podcasting is an increasingly popular pastime in the U.S., with an estimated 88 million listeners in 2019. The pandemic has led to an amazing surge in streaming, and forecasts suggest that listener numbers will surpass 160 million in 2023.

While Gil has little experience in media (and none in podcasting), he invested in the technology needed to turn his home garage into a proper studio.

“Ganas” podcasts will span 30 to 45 minutes, and include topics such as sports, health, fitness, leadership, community and more.

Finding impactful guests shouldn’t be a problem.

As part of its mission, GBA believes in empowering youth by helping them develop a world view. Through the years Gil and his volunteers have taken academy members to far-flung places such as New Zealand, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica and Italy. GBA coaches have also been on staff at basketball camps run by NBA legend Michael Jordan and the late Kobe Bryant.

While he wouldn’t predict an MJ appearance on the podcast, it’s not outside the realm of possibility; Gil has met and worked with Jordan on several occasions.

“We’ve made so many connections over the years,” Gil said. “We also have former college friends who are now mayors, doctors, top officials, lawyers. My wife’s friend is the director of the Lupus Foundation of America. We want to take this to a different level. There are ways to show leadership, teamwork and inspiration through uplifting and inspiring interviews.”

Gil plans to treat each podcast like a casual conversation, seeing where it leads. His grown children will help in the effort to recruit guests and produce the shows.

“It will be a family thing, and always centered on family values, and a holistic approach to life,” he said.

“Ganas” podcasts will also include video, with many of the guests joining the show via the conferencing network Zoom. To stream “Ganas,” Gil plans to use popular podcast sites such as Spotify and Apple, and will archive all episodes on GBA’s website www.gilbasketballacademy.com.

In the end, Gil hopes that each listener to “Ganas” will be inspired to make the most out of life.

“I use ganas in my coaching toolbox because I believe that if you put your heart into something you can be successful,” he said. “It’s in the ganas. Go all out, that’s what it translates to. In basketball terms it means leave it all on the court. But it applies to life as well.”

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.gilbasketballacademy.com

Gil Basketball Academy, Jose Gil, podcast series Ganas Leading from the Hert

Gil Basketball Academy Player Profile Nick Duque

When Nick Duque was 6 years old, his family moved to Salinas. Immediately he was the new kid, in a new school, with no one to talk to.

Salinas, CA, June 14, 2020 - “I had problems interacting with other kids and was bullied a lot,” he said.

Starting in the fourth grade, Nick would bring his own basketball to school and shoot hoop during recess and lunch — by himself.

Eventually he joined a team … and everything changed.

“Making friends and interacting with other kids my age became easier and the bullying stopped,” he said. “Going through this kind of stuff helped me become a better person and leader.”

Currently in 8th grade at La Paz Middle School in Salinas, the 5-foot-9 point guard is a scoring sensation, averaging 20 points per game last season. He was selected to the Reggie Stephens Foundation Monterey County All Star Team, and has been named scholar athlete the past two years.

His goal next year as a freshman is to make the JV or varsity team at Alisal High School.

“My immediate plan is to take advantage of this off season and improve my skills,” he said. “I feel that since there is a shelter-in-place order in our area, a lot of players my age are not working that hard to get better.”

Nick joined Gil Basketball Academy in the fifth grade, and credits GBA with instilling in him a work ethic. “GBA has taught me to keep working hard to achieve your goals not only in basketball but everyday life,” he said.

To achieve his basketball goals, Nick takes at least 500 shots a day, works on his ball handling drills, runs 3 miles per day wearing an elevation mask, and works out in his family’s home gym.

“Another goal of mine is to be a good big brother and to support my younger brother with anything he needs,” he said.

Nick’s 2-year-old brother was recently diagnosed with autism. “I hope I can make a difference no matter how big or how small,” he said.

Nick believes that playing basketball and being part of a team has helped him become a better person.

“With basketball you learn early on how to interact and work together with others,” he said. “It also gives me the incentive to get good grades.”

Nick’s goal is to attend a four-year university and play basketball. “My ultimate goal is to become a doctor,” he said.

He hopes the sport continues to open up doors for him.

“Without basketball I'm not sure what I would be doing,” he said. “I have met a lot of people and obtained the discipline to stay away from anyone that may be a bad influence.”

Nick credits GBA with instilling in him certain traits — among them, leadership, respect, courage and selflessness.

“Being part of the GBA family has taught me to keep working hard to achieve my goals, not only in basketball but everyday life,” he said.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://gilbasketballacademy.com/

Gil Basketball Academy Player Profile Eduardo Rodriguez

Eduardo Rodriguez is only 17, but has already learned one of life’s great lessons.

Salinas, CA, June 04, 2020 - Eduardo Rodriguez is only 17, but has already learned one of life’s great lessons.

“I don’t see failure as failure, but as lessons that will help me improve and grow,” he said.

He learned that by playing basketball, and by being accountable as a teammate. Any loss, or setback, became a learning experience, an opportunity to practice techniques and perfect performance.

“Without basketball I wouldn't be the person I am today,” said Eduardo, a senior at Alisal High School and 10-year member of Gil Basketball Academy.

One such setback occurred during his sophomore year when he tore a ligament in his left elbow during a football game. Fear and uncertainty followed.

“The anxiety increased when I learned that my tear required surgery,” he said.

Although the surgery was successful, he had to undergo physical therapy for 10-12 months in order to get his full range of motion back. “My will was tested when it came to healing,” he said. “I was in constant pain. I wore a cast, making it difficult to feel comfortable when learning or doing homework. School was also a challenge because it was difficult to open my locker and get my books, typing on my computer with only one arm.”

He also lost out on a season of sports.

“I fell into a depression because I felt that I had lost a part of my identity,” he said.

Surrounded by his family, his friends and his teammates, Eduardo learned about unconditional support.

“Because of this, I was able to succeed academically and athletically, resulting in a speedy recovery,” he said. “I learned to appreciate the simple tasks in life and I learned to develop mental toughness and grit. And I became a stronger athlete and an even better student.”

During his senior year, the 5-foot, 8-inch shooting guard was especially good behind the 3-point line. Eduardo started playing at age 5, winning numerous awards along the way, including earning a place in the Central Coast All-Star game and earning all-star status at Michael Jordan’s basketball camp in Santa Barbara.

Beyond all those achievements, Eduardo has built so many memories away from the court. Through GBA he’s traveled to far-flung places, from Las Vegas to New Zealand to Italy and more.

“Basketball has taught me many life lessons,” he said. “It has taught me how to work with people and have good communication, since you play with a team not just by yourself.”

GBA also stressed the importance of an education (it helped that Eduardo’s parents serve on the GBA board).

“My parents have always told me about the importance of an education because it’s what changed their lives for the better,” he said. “They have shown me that with a college degree I can achieve a better life with better job opportunities.”

Eduardo will attend UC Davis straight out of high school. He plans to study Cinema and Digital Media, with an eye toward a creative career in video editing and production.

When he leaves, he will feel good about helping others in his hometown of Salinas.

“Another opportunity that GBA gave me was being able to be a mentor to the youth of GBA by being a coach,” he said. “Helping these young kids has taught me how to be more patient. Through GBA I learned the importance of giving back to your community in order to make it a better place.”

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://gilbasketballacademy.com/

Gil Basketball Academy Samuel Gil-Silva

When your parents sacrifice everything to start a basketball academy with the goal of teaching local youth how to become healthy, productive and contributing members of the community, you play ball. No questions asked.

Salinas, CA, May 29, 2020 - When your parents sacrifice everything to start a basketball academy with the goal of teaching local youth how to become healthy, productive and contributing members of the community, you play ball. No questions asked.

Samuel Gil-Silva was handed a basketball at age 4. It’s a family tradition — cemented after Jose Gil and Eva Silva launched Gil Basketball Academy more than a decade ago.

“It is normal for me for everyone to play ball because we have grown up around it,” said Samuel, now a 14-year-old freshman at Alisal High School, where his father Jose Gil serves as varsity head coach.

Samuel took to the game quite naturally. The 5-foot-7 shooting guard/small forward played in the prestigious Central Coast All-Star Game the past two years. His first year on the high school team he won the Coach’s Award as his Trojans finished the season unbeaten at 24-0.

“Being a part of the game, in general, has helped me become a greater person,” he said. “It also helps with collaboration skills as well as patience. Basketball showed me the possibilities that I would have if I put time and effort into it.”

Samuel has seen first-hand how participation in sports has helped the youth of Salinas. “Basketball has helped me not get into trouble inside and outside of school growing up,” he said. Being a member of GBA is also “a way for people to go places and explore the world.”

Through GBA, Samuel has traveled to Mexico, Italy, Las Vegas, Reno, Costa Rica, Hawaii, Dominican Republic, and even New Zealand. “I have met many people that live in those countries and I saw how fortunate I was to have what I have,” he said. “If I never played basketball I would have never been exposed to the outside world.”

Samuel was exposed to Gil Basketball Academy from the beginning, and realized early on that it was about more than the game of basketball. The larger goal of GBA is to empower local youth by developing their athletic skills, leadership, work ethic and world view while exposing them to life beyond Salinas.

“It opens doors for everyone,” he said.

After high school, Samuel plans to pursue an education at a four-year university to study acting or film production.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://gilbasketballacademy.com/

Gil Basketball Academy Player Profile Jordan Montero

Playing basketball has taught Jordan Montero many life lessons, but the one that really resonates involves character

Salinas, CA, May 28, 2020 - Playing basketball has taught Jordan Montero many life lessons, but the one that really resonates involves character: “Anyone can be good at sports, but not everyone is a good sport.”

The 5-foot, 3-inch power forward/shooting guard plays for Everett Alvarez High School and on a select team for Gil Basketball Academy. She has participated in tournaments all over the Bay Area and as far away as Las Vegas.

“Basketball is one of the greatest things that has happened to me,” said Montero, 16. “Basketball, and especially being part of GBA, has really shaped who I am. It’s not only about basketball drills, they also teach character.”

Just being a member of a team has shown Jordan the values of listening, discipline and compromise.

“Volunteering with GBA at camps and on Monday night Academy Nights have really pushed the lesson of giving back,” she said. “I could share the knowledge they so readily gave me with the future generations of kids. Without GBA, I couldn’t imagine where I’d be, but let alone what kind of person I’d be. I don’t think I’d be nearly as thoughtful or considerate of others without basketball to begin with.”

The 10th grader lives in Salinas, the oldest of six kids.

“Life is never boring or dull,” she said. “My immediate future plans are simple, all I want to do is go to a good college.”

GBA has also taught Jordan the importance of education.

“It has extreme value to me,” she said. “I dream of the day I get to go off to college knowing that everything will be OK.”

Jordan will be the first person in her family to attend college, a fact that has really motivated her.

“I plan on working really hard in high school right now so I can go to the best college possible for me,” she said.

Montero credits GBA with opening a variety of doors in her life.

“I never knew some were possible for me,” she said, “from free basketball camps at Stanford, to more educational opportunities like a STEM program for women in science. GBA has introduced me to people willing to help me in basketball and with education. And for that I am truly grateful.”

Jordan also credits basketball with helping her overcome serious issues such as anxiety and low self-esteem.

“It took so long to even make progress to be where I am today,” she said. “And I’m still working on it, but things always get better. And they’re getting better one day at a time.”

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://gilbasketballacademy.com/

Gil Basketball Academy Player Story Christian Soto

Just ask 16-year-old Cristian Soto, who realized early in life that obstacles provided him a chance to practice courage and perseverance.

Salinas, CA, May 25, 2020 - We can learn a lot from our obstacles. Just ask 16-year-old Cristian Soto, who realized early in life that obstacles provided him a chance to practice courage and perseverance.

Soto’s first big challenge happened in the third grade when he broke his ankle.

“It was tough because I was in a cast for three months and that prevented me from doing the things I loved to do,” he said. “My ankle was so weak that I never thought I’d be the same. But I kept building the strength back and came back stronger.”

Today, the 10th grader at Alisal High School is a 6-foot, 2-inch power forward, and a member of Gil Basketball Academy. Through the years he’s earned three MVP awards.

“Basketball really helped me in my life,” he said. “It helped me realize that your team is like another family. They have your back and help you get through tough times. And as the years go on, you build stronger relationships with all your teammates and coaches.”

Basketball helped Soto overcome another challenge — when his family moved from the bright lights of Las Vegas to Salinas five years ago.

“The transition from Vegas to Salinas was hard for me,” he said. “When we first moved here, I didn’t know anyone and had a hard time making friends. I’m kind of shy, too, so that made things harder for me. I wanted to move back but I couldn’t just leave. So what I did was be more open and try to fit in, and that helped me to make friends.”

Soon after moving to Salinas, Soto joined GBA, which made a profound difference in his life.

“Gil Basketball opens up a lot of stuff for you,” he said. “It gives you the opportunity to play the game while learning new things to enhance your game and become a better player. Once you join GBA, you become part of the family and your relationship never dies.”

Soto enjoys a big family at home, living with his parents and three sisters. After graduating from Alisal High School, he plans on attending a four-year university and pursuing a degree in the medical field.

“Preferably in sports medicine,” he said. “In my family, education is very important. Both my parents went to college and earned a degree. They want the same thing from me, so they always push me to get good grades.”

Looking back now, breaking his ankle taught Soto perseverance, dedication and positivity. Moving from Las Vegas to Salinas taught him that nothing is as bad as it seems initially. Opportunities can appear out of nowhere.

“Without basketball, I wouldn’t be at the same school and I wouldn’t have been able to build all the relationships that I have today,” he said.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://gilbasketballacademy.com/

Gil Basketball Academy Natalie Cortes

When Natalie Cortes first picked up a basketball in the fifth grade, she found even the simple act of dribbling the ball extremely difficult.

Salinas, CA, May 19, 2020 - She almost gave up the sport that first day. But she refused to give up — a trait that became a huge part of the 14-year-old’s personality.

“After many years of practice and determination, not only did I learn how to dribble, but I also learned how to do many other skills, too,” she said.

Once she joined Gil Basketball Academy, she fell in love with the game, but at one point almost had to give it up entirely.

“My parents couldn’t afford me playing basketball in GBA Select because we had too many other things going on,” she said.

So Natalie took it upon herself to email her father’s boss to explain the situation. “Because of that I got sponsored so I was able to play again,” she said.

A freshman at Alisal High School, Natalie lives in Salinas with her parents, 12-year-old brother and two 6-year-old twin sisters.

A 5-foot, 2-inch point guard/shooting guard, Natalie has learned so much from basketball.

“It has helped me gain so much,” she said. “For example, being part of a team for all these years has shown me the value of teamwork, hardwork and determination, and paying attention to every detail. This has helped me in my life to become a better person mentally and physically.”

Through GBA, Natalie has learned the value of education, and her goal is to attend a university on scholarship. Her career choice? “I don't know what it is yet, but one thing I do know is that an education will get me places in the future.”

Natalie credits Gil Basketball Academy for helping her on and off the court.

“Overall, GBA has opened so many doors for me regarding basketball. Thanks to GBA, I was recruited by NCSA (Next College Student Athlete), which I unfortunately didn’t join for many reasons,” she said. “They helped me not only to gain more expertise in basketball, but to become a better person.”

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://gilbasketballacademy.com/

Gil Basketball Academy Player Profile Isabella Gonzalez

In many ways Isabella Gonzalez has two families.

Salinas, CA, May 16, 2020 - The 13-year-old lives with her two loving parents, two older brothers and her nana in North Salinas. Away from home Isabella experiences another close-knit environment as a member of Gil Basketball Academy.

“Because of GBA, I have another family,” she said. “It has helped me become a team player, and taught me to always work hard and to never give up. I love playing basketball and I think, without it, I wouldn’t be as motivated in life.”

The 5-foot, 1-inch shooting guard started playing basketball at the Rec Center at age 6, and joined the GBA Select Team two years later. This past season she averaged 15 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists.

But it’s what happened off the court that affected her so profoundly. Sports have a way of creating a sense of uni­ty, and that showed when Isabella’s mother Susie was diagnosed with breast cancer.

“I was in kindergarten, and as a 5 year old I was frightened that I was going to lose my mom,” she said. “It was so difficult to see her after her treatment and especially seeing her in the hospital. I would cry myself to sleep every night and also used to cry at school.”

Even now, every time her mom leaves to see her doctor at Stanford for a checkup, Isabella feels anxious and afraid that the cancer will return.

“It’s making me a strong person like my mom,” she said.

During her mom’s treatments, when she was really sick, “my GBA family made me feel like there was hope,” she said. “Some of the parents used to give me and my brothers rides to Stanford Hospital so we can see our mom. They would even bring food and let us stay at their houses, or took us places so my mom could rest.”

GBA also allowed Isabella to experience other cultures in different parts of the world.

“I’ve been to all the world tours that GBA has gone to,” she said. “I’ve been to New Zealand, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Italy and Mexico.”

In many of those countries, Isabella interacted with kids experiencing profound, daily life challenges, and that provided her a life lesson.

“Being in a foreign country, I have seen kids that aren’t as fortunate as I am, so my GBA family and I decided to give out some of our shoes and other things to them.”

The seventh grader attends Bolsa Knolls Middle School, and one day plans to attend a 4-year university to study in a medical field — and hopefully continue to play basketball.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://gilbasketballacademy.com/

Gil Basketball Academy Student Spotlight Roberto Mendoza

A freshman at Alisal High School, Roberto Mendoza has already mapped out his future.

Salinas, CA, May 10, 2020 - A freshman at Alisal High School, Roberto Mendoza has already mapped out his future. He has selected a particular path that requires hard work and discipline — not the easy one that often leads to a deadend.

He’s learned such wisdom on the court as a member of Gil Basketball Academy that provides structure and a sense of belonging.

“There are people who don’t believe in me, trying to lure me into problems such as drugs,” he said. “These problems helped me to be myself, and not try to fit in with others. It has taught me to not be scared to be different.”

The 5-foot-4 point guard has been a member of GBA for nine years. In both 7th and 8th grade he was part of the Monterey County All Star Team, earning the Hustle Award one season. His first year at AHS he won Most Outstanding Award, as the team finished with a 24-0 record.

“Basketball has not only helped me become physically stronger, but also mentally,” he said. “It taught me to be a leader, and to be able to collaborate with others well. Basketball has helped me to stay off the streets, and to motivate myself to become better at everything I do.”

Mendoza calls GBA “a safe spot, and a family for me,” with coaches and parents who care about him as a person, not just a player.

“It has taught me to help others, and to become a leader, and not follow in the wrong footsteps,” he said.

GBA has opened lifelong friendships that Mendoza treats as family. “The people in this academy support me, and always motivate me and help me stay on track with sports, and also education,” he said.

Mendoza’s future plans after high school include attending a four-year college, and continuing to play the sport he loves. “I want to earn a scholarship to play basketball, and help me pay for college,” he said.

Mendoza sees education as his key to success in life.

“Education will help me obtain a better lifestyle as I grow into the person I will become,” he said. “It’s my main priority in life because it will lead my path to success.”

Mendoza doesn’t exactly know what his future holds, but he believes that he will lean on the lessons learned through GBA.

“They help you to not only learn important life skills, but to give back to our community,” he said. “It has taught me to be respectful and humble with others off and on the court.”

Basketball, truly, has changed his life.

“If I did not play basketball I wouldn’t be the person I am today,” he said. “I wouldn’t be as motivated to become a better person. It has also taught me to face the barriers, and to surpass them.”

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://gilbasketballacademy.com/

Gil Basketball Academy MVP Spotlight Isaiah Regalado

Isaiah Regalado has developed astounding basketball skills as a member of Gil Basketball Academy, but the MVP is just as proud of the life skills he’s learned along the way.

Salinas, CA, May 07, 2020 - Isaiah Regalado has developed astounding basketball skills as a member of Gil Basketball Academy, but the MVP is just as proud of the life skills he’s learned along the way.

The Alisal High School freshman earned the MVP award this past season as a 6-foot shooting guard. He also earned a scholar athlete honor for maintaining a GPA of 3.5 or higher.

“Playing basketball has helped me a lot in life with being able to manage my time with school and homework,” Regalado said. “It has also helped me by becoming more responsible in making sure that I am at practice on time or have all my right gear for the games.”

Born in San Jose, Regalado moved to Salinas in the third grade, attending Spreckels Elementary and later Buena Vista Middle School.

One obstacle he’s overcome is the stress of choosing a high school. While all of his classmates and friends ended up at Salinas High School, Regalado decided to attend Alisal High instead. “This was a hard choice because I only knew a couple of people who would be going there, but wasn’t close to any of them,” he said. “However, I felt Alisal was the best fit for me.”

Regalado, 14, recognizes a built-in support system around him, including his uncles, aunt, grandparents and especially his mom.

His family, and also GBA, has helped Regalado learn the value of an education. “An education will help you grow in life and I prioritize it before anything else,” he said. “Having an education can increase the number of job opportunities you have once done.”

After high school, Regalado wants to attend a 4-year university and study law.

Beyond stressing education, Regalado said GBA has taught him how to become a better person in life and to be more responsible.

“They have taught me the importance of giving back to the community, by helping out at their academy, teaching kids how to play the game of basketball, which I’m so passionate about,” he said.

Regalado has been playing basketball since age 8 (competitively since the age of 11), and he also enjoys playing baseball and golf. But he’s learned there is life outside of sports.

“This academy has helped me meet a lot of new people and strive to be a better person. All of their coaches/mentors are so encouraging and sincerely want the best for each one of their athletes.”

His favorite GBA memory is attending a world tour to Mexico. “That was an awesome experience,” he said. “We learned a lot about the history of places we visited, and to play basketball there was an experience I will never forget.”

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://www.gilbasketballacademy.com/

Gil Basketball Academy Celebrates the Women of Basketball Meet Gabby Godinez

Gabriela “Gabby” Godinez, 18, has been playing basketball since she was 10 years old, and would do so after graduating high school this summer if they were more opportunities afforded her.

Salinas, CA, March 04, 2020 - A senior at Alisal High School, she has been playing organized basketball since the eighth grade and currently plays both basketball and tennis at Alisal, as well as after-school basketball at the Gil Basketball Academy run by Jose Gil, who is also Alisal’s athletic director.

Gabby hopes to attend Sacramento State in the fall, but doesn’t expect to play basketball for the college. At 5-foot-71/2 inches, Gabby plays either strong forward or center and has a strong defensive game.

She says playing basketball has taught her discipline, teamwork, communication, leadership, and, now that she’s older, becoming a role model and helping the younger girls.

“I like helping out with kids, help them become better,” she says. “I even asked my coach how I could become an assistant coach.”

She says she cried when Alisal’s regular season ended because she knew that would most likely be one of the last times she would play with her teammates.

“I really liked interacting with my teammates, it’s like a family. We’ve been together for three years.”

In the future, while she may not play as much basketball as she has during her school years, she hopes she may still be involved in the sport as a coach, to teach and encourage younger girl players.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://www.gilbasketballacademy.com/

Gil Basketball Academy Celebrates the Women of Basketball Meet Mikaela Arista

In addition to her school work, basketball is everything for 17-year-old Mikaela Arista.

Salinas, CA, March 03, 2020 - It’s everything to me, it’s my passion in my life,” says the Alisal High School junior. “It’s been a huge support system for me and has helped me in all aspects of my life.”

Mikael started playing basketball when she was only 5 years old, encouraged by her basketball-loving parents. She’s been playing with the Gil Basketball Academy since the second grade and made the Alisal varsity team as a freshman.

She says GBA taught her all the fundamentals of the game, but also helped her develop her basketball IQ — the game play, strategy and other aspects beyond passing and dribbling.

Playing basketball also helped her develop life skills, confidence, communication, the importance of discipline and teamwork.

“It really helped me succeed in school and do well socially,” says Mikaela, who won the Alisal team MVP award as both a freshman and sophomore.

She hopes to continue playing basketball after high school and hopes her high level of play her senior year will draw the attention of some college coaches.

“That’s the goal right now, to expose myself to schools and open up opportunities after high school,” she says, adding, to keep honing her skills, “I try to get on court as much as I can.”

At 5-foot-8-inches tall, she plays small forward on her teams and considers herself an offensive force as well as a good defender. She also plays tennis and swims competitively at Alisal.

“I consider myself a versatile player, I do a little bit of everything,” she says. She likes the excitement of being on the basketball court, working as a team and the intensity of the game.

In college she hopes to study biology and other sciences with the goal of becoming a physician’s assistant and perhaps one day, after her playing days are over, to come back to the community as a coach.

“I’ve spent so many years playing basketball, I don’t know where I’d be without it.”

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://www.gilbasketballacademy.com/

Local Boys and Girls Ages 4-17 invited to Register for Gil Basketball Academy’s 2020 Season

While basketball promotes health and well-being, it’s also a vehicle for change in a community.

Salinas, CA, December 26, 2019 - While basketball promotes health and well-being, it’s also a vehicle for change in a community.

As the calendar turns to 2020, Gil Basketball Academy prepares for another year spent teaching local youth the fundamentals of the sport, along with life lessons surrounding teamwork, discipline and respect.

Online registration is now open for the East Salinas-based Gil Basketball Academy’s 2020 season for boys and girls ages 4-17.

Membership includes weekly evening practices, possible opportunities to travel and play in tournaments (with GBA’s Select Traveling Teams), international tours, campus visits to colleges and universities, field trips, participation in community events and learning the fundamentals of basketball from qualified and background-vetted volunteer coaches.

Registration is open to all local youth, no matter where they live. The academy is committed to making every member a well-rounded student-athlete who can compete at any level.

GBA offers camps, clinics, leagues, academy nights and more, teaching athletes the skills and techniques of shooting, passing, dribbling, rebounding, and defense. Athletes will be coached by GBA co-founder Jose Gil and other qualified and experienced coaches.

GBA will not only teach basketball fundamentals but will also build confidence and character in all GBA members while having fun.

Register online at: gilbasketballacademy.leagueapps.com/camps.

About Gil Basketball Academy
Jose Gil and Eva Silva co-founded GBA out of the belief that one of the most effective ways to strengthen a community is for its youth to be surrounded by positive adult role models, positive peer influences, and immersed in meaningful and constructive activities. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, GBA currently has 420 members, boys and girls ages 4 to 17. Find out more at www.gilbasketballacademy.com.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.gilbasketballacademy.com

Gil Basketball Academy invites Local Media to Observe Hoopin’ for Change Motto in action during Key dates

Gil Basketball Academy believes in its motto Hoopin’ for Change.

Salinas, CA, December 17, 2019 — Gil Basketball Academy believes in its motto Hoopin’ for Change. It has spent the last 10 years teaching local youth not only the principles of the sport, but the tenets of resiliency, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and family.

This summer GBA will give 300-plus kids a safe, healthy and educational experience — all built around fun. The media is invited to see first-hand how basketball and teamwork can help change the outlook of active adolescents.

Because as the late-great UCLA championship coach John Wooden once said: “What you are as a person is far more important than what you are as a basketball player.”

GBA has put together a media schedule to better facilitate coverage for the next session (online registration begins Jan. 1). Academy nights are held on Mondays in the Alisal High School gym, with ages 4-12 practicing from 6-7:30 p.m., and ages 13-17 from 7:30-9 p.m.

Members of the media are invited to observe the activities on March 9, 17, 23 and 30, April 20 and 27, and May 4, 11 and 18.

Other key dates include: Salinas Slam Tournament (April 24-26); World Tour 2020 (June 21-July 3); Summer Basketball Camp (July 13-15); GBA Annual Gala Dinner/Dance (Oct. 10).

About Gil Basketball Academy
Jose Gil and Eva Silva co-founded GBA out of the belief that one of the most effective ways to strengthen a community is for its youth to be surrounded by positive adult role models, positive peer influences, and immersed in meaningful and constructive activities. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, GBA currently has 420 members, boys and girls ages 4 to 17. Its mission is to help them all grow up to be healthy, caring, competent, responsible and resilient. Find out more at www.gilbasketballacademy.com.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.gilbasketballacademy.com

Gil Basketball Academy Announces World Tour, Celebrates 10th Anniversary

East Salinas-based Gil Basketball Academy, which celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2019, has announced its annual World Tour in the summer of 2020.

Salinas, CA, March 26, 2019 — East Salinas-based Gil Basketball Academy, which celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2019, has announced its annual World Tour in the summer of 2020. Tours of Cuba and Columbia Set for Summer 2020.

The Gil Basketball Academy enrollment averages more than 400 youths ages 4 to 17, and academy groups have gone on trips to New Zealand, Italy, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Mexico and Hawaii.

About Gil Basketball Academy
Gil Basketball Academy was founded by Jose Gil and Eva Silva in 2009, with the goal of providing local boys and girls ages 4-17 of all skill levels the opportunity to learn and play basketball. The Academy, which averages 400 attendees annually, offers regular basketball camps, clinics, field trips, world tours and individual one-on-one sessions that teach youths the skills and techniques of shooting, passing, dribbling, rebounding, and defense. They are coached by Jose Gil and other qualified and experienced volunteer coaches. The Academy’s “home court” is the gym at Alisal High School, where Gil is the Athletic Director.

Although one of the primary goals of the Academy is to teach youth about every facet of the game of basketball, the larger goal is to teach local youth how to become healthy, productive, and contributing citizens of their community by exposing them to life beyond Salinas by offering tours to other countries. So far the academy has taken trips to New Zealand, Italy, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Mexico and Hawaii, and plans are underway to visit Cuba and Colombia in 2020.

Gil Basketball Academy
1522 Constitution Blvd., Suite 213,
Salinas, California 93905
(831) 905-1155
https://gilbasketballacademy.com

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://www.gilbasketballacademy.com