Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nikolas Anders. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Nikolas, appreciate you joining us today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.

Starting a business is a major risk in itself! I had a good job in New York City, and took a risk dropping everything and moving back home to Houston, Texas in the beginning of the pandemic. I put the entirety of my savings into starting my basketball business, not knowing for sure if I’d make it back, especially with no connections to bring in clients. I had to bet on myself, and people had to believe in my work.
I’m currently trying to make this a full time business for me, so that I can quit my other jobs and just do what I love.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I got into training basketball players by first teaching my neighbor the game. As he improved, more and more players started to hear about me and show up to free workouts. Before I knew it, I was pretty much running a free summer program as well as coaching an aau team.

I still run an AAU program in Houston, Texas and I also provide skill development training services for groups and private clients.

I have one job. I help players get better. I do everything I can to get that job done, but it is a process that takes time and commitment on the clients end as well.

What sets me apart is that I believe I am actually called to do this in my life. I believe this is the gift God has given me. Another thing that sets me apart is that I have ambition, without the pride. I understand that for my clients to improve, I must continuously improve as well as a teacher. I study and ask questions, and I look for new things to teach and new ways to teach them .

I’m very proud of the risk I took during the pandemic.
Every catastrophe, also has an opportunity.

Baseline Performance and Dash Elite Basketball are the 2 programs I represent.

When anyone looks at these programs I want them to see how good God is, and I want to reflect Him in my life.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

The players. After people spend time training with me, they experience a change that other people notice. People can see my work in the change over time. I’ve also been seen working with some of the best trainers in the city, and people know there are levels to everything. To be among the best guys is a blessing for me, and it gives me more credibility to those who have never seen me train or hasn’t seen my players play.

Any advice for managing a team?

Trust your team! Allow people to do what they are good at. Just do your best to provide structure and be clear on what you’re looking for. Allow them to operate in their space, but make sure everything is about the team. There has to be balance and delegation, and remember that attitude reflects leadership.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.baselineperformancebasketball.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/baselineperformance1
• Facebook: Facebook.com/baselineperformance1
• Twitter: Twitter.com/coachnikoanders
• Other: @dashelitebball @baselineperformance1

Image Credits
@kayandersphoto @imagesbyedgayle