Coaches | Empower Basketball

Meet the Team

Meet our coaches! They are passionate leaders dedicated to developing players. With unique backgrounds, they inspire athletes and foster teamwork, enhancing skills and love for the game.

Lead Coach for PGD Programs in Richmond

Arminas Ilciukas

In his role, Coach Arminas will be the lead architect of our training curriculum and will specifically take over and elevate our renowned Premium Guard Development (PGD) program.

Head Coach U13 Boys and Girls Programs

Lucius Gbolonyo

-Current Head Coach of the Varsity Team for University Hill Secondary School

Dedicated student of the game with a focus on continuous learning and application. Prioritize being a teacher and a friend to bring out the best in players. Believes in building strong bonds with players is essential for team success.

Coach

Aidan Lear

Head Coach for U15 Programs

Alexis Diaz

Lead Coach for PGD Programs in Vancouver Locations

Binyam Mengesha

-Dedicated and driven basketball coach with over 3 years of head coaching experience at the high school and club levels. Committed to developing confident, competitive athletes by fostering both the physical and mental aspects of the game. Known for guiding players to think strategically and perform like winners, while promoting resilience and a growth mindset.

PT and Injury Prevention & Performance Coach

John Yan

-A specialist in youth athletic development, with a Master's in Rehabilitation Sciences and current Physical Therapy training, he brings cutting-edge research right to the court. His work on ACL recovery has been published in top-tier sports medicine journals, and he's spent 6+ years coaching high school and club basketball.

Assistant Coach for PGD Programs

Brian Chen

-A dedicated and experienced coach focused on developing individual athletes and building strong teams. With expertise in performance analysis and personalized training, this coach brings out the best in every player through motivation, mentorship, and strong leadership.

Head Coach for U12 Programs in Richmond

Jashan Goraya

-Dynamic basketball coach with a strong track record at Empower Basketball, known for strategic planning and player development. Drives team success through customized training, motivational leadership, and a focus on sportsmanship and collaboration. Experienced in injury prevention and game strategy, consistently fostering player growth.

Program Founder
Frankie brings extensive coaching experience and leadership to the program. As Head Coach, he fosters a competitive and supportive training environment where young athletes are challenged to learn, grow, and elevate their game alongside their peers and coaches. Creator of the Premium Guard Development System, Frankie also places a significant emphasis on high-intensity training, while teaching tactical concepts that give our players an edge within a team environment.