Who we are
As an organization we are committed to being a constant, ever-present voice and support system for the students we serve. We accomplish this by providing youth centered, thought provoking and informative programming that is community oriented, integrity driven, and focused on creating platforms and opportunities for growth, learning and exposure.
LEADERSHIP
Naazir Russell, B.S.
Uptempo Basketball and Youth Development President and Founder
Naazir Russell is a former NBA coach, university coach, professional international basketball player, and former collegiate basketball player at the University of West Florida, where he earned a full basketball scholarship and graduated with a Bachelors degree in Health Sciences. He is the current Head Coach of the Uptempo Prep Program for Men’s Basketball. Coach Russell comes from an NBA family where five men have either played as a professional and/or works in the organization. The Russell family has produced more NBA players than any other family in the world. These men are: Frank Russell (Coach Russell's father) - Chicago Bulls; Campy Russell (Coach Russell's uncle) - Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks and currently works in the front office for the Cavaliers; Walker Russell (Coach Russell's uncle) - Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks, and Indiana Pacers and currently a scout for the New York Knicks; and Walker Russell, Jr - Detroit Pistons and Oklahoma City Thunder. This fuels Coach Russell’s passion and sincere interest in sharing his knowledge of the sport with young players. Coach Russell has trained NBA professional basketball players who benefited from his expertise and include: LeBron James (Cleveland Cavaliers); Rasheed Wallace (Detroit Pistons); Daniel Gibson (Cleveland Cavaliers), among others.
Kierah Russell, B.A. M.P.A.
Uptempo Basketball and Youth Development Vice President, Director of Academic Enrichment and Community Outreach Liaison
Kierah Russell holds a Masters in Public Administration and Bachelors of Arts in Political Science and Sociology from Stephen F. Austin State University. Mrs. Russell is a former college professor for Lone Star College and Stephen F. Austin State University and currently works on behalf of student athletes in our Uptempo Prep Program. Through her collegiate experiences both as a student, educator, and administrator, Mrs. Russell provides each student-athlete with the academic support needed to be successful in the classroom as they transition and become acquainted with collegiate procedures, course load and expectations. Additionally, she is an educator of 16 years having taught and mentored countless students ranging from PreK to Higher Education. Mrs. Russell is also the lead program director for our youth sports clinics and S.T.E.A.M. camps and works with multiple community partners and sponsors to create these experiences for youth in the Greater Houston area.
Contact us
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