Coach Shabaka "Chewy" Lands - A Dream That Became a Movement

Coach Shabaka "Chewy" Lands is an accomplished basketball coach based in Indianapolis, IN, who has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of numerous players and teams. The following chronicles his journey, from the early days of coaching to his notable accomplishments and the players he has worked with over the years.

Coach Shabaka's coaching journey began in 1998 when he started as a seventh and eighth-grade girls' coach at Lincoln Middle School. It was during this time that he nurtured his dream of becoming a basketball coach, which eventually grew into a movement that has left a lasting impact on the basketball community.

After his stint at Lincoln Middle School, Coach Shabaka moved on to coach at Indianapolis Pike High School, where he spent eight years honing his coaching skills. During his tenure at Pike, the basketball program witnessed remarkable achievements and accolades.

In 2002, the team reached the state runner-up position.

The following year, in 2003, the team clinched the State Championship with a perfect 29-0 record, earning a rank of 2nd in the nation.

Throughout his coaching career, Coach Shabaka Lands achieved several milestones, both as a head coach and an assistant coach. Here are some of his notable accomplishments:

2002 - 2004: Served as the Freshman Head Coach, 20-0 Freshman Marion Champions. 54-6 Record

2004 - 2005: Served as the Junior Varsity Head Coach. 29-5 Record

2006 - 2009: Worked as the Varsity Assistant Coach.

The Pike program recorded an impressive 3 Marion County, 3 Conference Championships, 1 State Finalist and 1 State Championship during his coaching tenure.

In 2009-2010, Coach Shabaka Lands served as an assistant coach at the University of Louisville. During this time, he contributed to opponent scouting, game preparation, and on-campus recruiting efforts.

Coach Shabaka Lands has had the privilege of coaching many talented players who have gone on to achieve success in various stages of their careers. Some of the notable players he has worked with include:

NOTABLE ATHLETES

"Bound by Love, Forever as One"

In 2012, Coach Shabaka founded “The Basketball Movement," an initiative that aims to promote basketball and provide valuable coaching resources. Additionally, he took charge of coaching the Species Indy Heat.

Coach Shabaka "Chewy" Lands' passion for basketball and dedication to coaching has led to the realization of his dream, which has grown into a significant movement in Indianapolis. His coaching prowess and mentorship have produced remarkable achievements for his teams and players, making him an influential figure in the basketball community.

In addition to his coaching career and notable players coached, Coach Shabaka "Chewy" Lands has also been involved in various international basketball events and initiatives. Here are some highlights:

In 2016, Coach Shabaka hosted a training camp for the CBL (Canadian Basketball League), providing valuable coaching and skills development opportunities for aspiring basketball players.

In June and July of 2017, Coach Lands embarked on a basketball-related trip to Brazil with Trip Sports, an organization focused on promoting sports and cultural exchange. During this trip, Coach Lands engaged with players, coaches, and basketball enthusiasts in Brazil, sharing his expertise and passion for the game.

Subsequently, in January 2018, Trip Sports reciprocated the cultural exchange by visiting the USA. This visit allowed Coach Shabaka and other basketball enthusiasts to further connect, learn, and share experiences with the Trip Sports group from Brazil.

Coach Shabaka has actively participated in international exchanges like these over the years, fostering global connections and expanding the reach of his basketball movement. He has emphasized the importance of cultural exchange and learning from diverse basketball communities worldwide. Trips like the one to Brazil in 2017-18 enabled Coach Shabaka to immerse himself in different basketball cultures, gain new perspectives, and contribute to the growth of the sport on an international level.

Throughout the last ten years, Coach Shabaka has been committed to promoting basketball beyond the borders of his own community, strengthening the ties between various basketball communities around the world. These experiences have not only enriched his coaching philosophy but have also contributed to the development of a more interconnected and vibrant global basketball community.

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

"Family: The Cornerstone of a Coach's Journey"

In a coach's life, family holds a paramount significance, providing an anchor of support and inspiration that fuels their passion for coaching. Amidst the demands of the profession, the unconditional love and understanding from family members become a source of strength, enabling coaches to persevere through challenges and celebrate victories. The unwavering encouragement and belief from loved ones instill a deep sense of purpose, reaffirming the coach's commitment to both their team and their family. Through the highs and lows of coaching, family serves as a constant reminder of what truly matters, fostering a well-rounded perspective and a sense of balance in their lives. The bond with family enriches a coach's journey, making every achievement all the more meaningful and every memory cherished for a lifetime.

"United in Love, Forever as Family"

Through Generations: A Legacy of Strength, Wisdom, and Unity

In the tapestry of our family's story, the thread of extraordinary men weaves a rich and vibrant pattern that spans generations. From the patriarchs who laid the foundation of our family's values to the sons who carry the torch of tradition, each man's presence leaves an indelible mark on our lives.

As we look back, we cherish the wisdom handed down from father to son, the resilience that weathered life's storms, and the unconditional love that binds us together. We honor the struggles they've overcome, the sacrifices they've made, and the dreams they've pursued.

In the laughter shared and tears shed, in the lessons taught and the memories created, we find a common thread that connects us all. It is a bond forged not only by blood but also by the shared experiences that have shaped us.