Book Private Basketball Lessons with Coach Bilal

Upon my graduation from Hargrave military academy , I earned a full scholarship to attend Villanova University and study under the esteemed Coach Jay Wright while competing at the NCAA Division I level.After two years as a Wildcat laying the foundation for my game, I sought to continue pushing myself and transferred to Niagara University, where was named an All-Conference selection twice while obtaining my degree in Criminal Justice.

From there, I started out my seven-year professional basketball career spanning top leagues in Lithuania, Portugal, Canada, and Israel, where I became the National League Champion and Finals MVP in 2013.

One year before that, in 2012, I became a certified trainer with Micah Lancaster’s prestigious “I’m Possible” system.

1. Fundamental Skill Development: At Workhorse, we focus on building a strong foundation in basketball fundamentals such as shooting, dribbling, passing, and defense. These core skills are critical to becoming a well-rounded player.

2. Personalized Training Plans: Each athlete receives a tailored training plan based on their current abilities and goals. We work one-on-one or in small groups to ensure each player gets personalized attention and specific drills designed to address their weaknesses and improve their strengths.

3. Advanced Techniques and Footwork: Our training sessions introduce advanced techniques, including specialized footwork drills and shooting mechanics, ensuring athletes can perform at a higher level. Techniques like “Pre-Tection” help players get ahead of their competition.

4. Basketball IQ and Decision Making: We emphasize game IQ, teaching athletes how to make smart decisions on the court. Whether it’s reading defenses, anticipating plays, or improving court awareness, players learn how to think the game as much as play it.

5. Strength and Agility Training: Physical conditioning is an important aspect of improving one’s game. Workhorse Academy incorporates speed, agility, and strength training to improve players’ athleticism, which is essential for enhancing performance.

6. Mental Toughness and Confidence Building: We prioritize mental resilience and focus, teaching athletes how to stay composed under pressure and build confidence. This helps athletes play more effectively during high-stakes moments in games.

7. Consistent Feedback and Progress Tracking: Coaches at Workhorse regularly evaluate each athlete’s progress, providing constructive feedback and helping them set measurable goals. This ensures continuous improvement and accountability.

8. Game Situations and Scrimmages: Players have the opportunity to apply their skills in real game situations, simulating competitive environments to help them transition their training into real-game performance.

9. Leadership and Teamwork: We teach athletes the importance of leadership on and off the court. Through group training and team-building exercises, players learn how to be effective teammates and leaders, improving their overall basketball mindset.

By addressing every aspect of basketball development—physical, technical, mental, and strategic—Workhorse Academy provides athletes with a comprehensive approach to elevating their game to the next level.

A training session with Workhorse Academy consists of several structured components designed to maximize an athlete’s development:

1. Warm-up and Stretching: Each session begins with dynamic warm-ups and stretching to prepare the body for high-intensity training and prevent injuries. This can include jogging, jumping jacks, agility drills, and mobility exercises.

2. Skill Development Drills: The core of the session focuses on specific basketball skills such as:

• Ball Handling: Dribbling drills that focus on control, speed, and coordination.

• Shooting: Techniques to improve shooting form, foot placement, and shot release.

• Passing: Drills designed to enhance accuracy, speed, and decision-making.

• Defense: Defensive stance, positioning, and reaction drills to improve agility and footwork.

3. Game Situations and Scrimmages: Players participate in drills that simulate real-game situations, working on game IQ, decision-making, and court awareness. These can include fast-break drills, half-court scenarios, or scrimmages to practice offensive and defensive tactics.

4. Strength and Agility Work: Training sessions include physical conditioning exercises to build overall strength, speed, and agility. This can include resistance training, lateral movement drills, jump training, and core workouts.

5. Footwork and Positioning: Athletes are taught the importance of footwork, body positioning, and balance. This helps with scoring efficiency, defense, and movement without the ball.

6. Mental Toughness Training: Throughout the session, coaches challenge players to stay focused and composed under pressure, encouraging mental resilience and confidence building.

7. Shooting Lab: In specialized shooting sessions, players focus solely on improving their shooting technique, including shot mechanics, consistency, and range. This lab approach breaks down shooting into key components to maximize efficiency and accuracy.

8. Cool-down and Feedback: The session ends with a cool-down, which involves light stretching and breathing exercises to relax the muscles. Coaches provide feedback on the athlete’s performance, pointing out areas of strength and improvement.

Each session is designed to push athletes to their limits while helping them refine their game. Whether working on individual skills or team-based strategies, every aspect of the session is tailored to the athlete’s level and goals.

The best coach I ever had was Jay Wright. His attention to detail, understanding of the game, and ability to develop players both on and off the court were unparalleled. He emphasized the importance of discipline, teamwork, and accountability, teaching us not just how to play basketball but how to approach life with the same level of dedication and focus. Coach Wright had a unique way of making every player feel valued, while also pushing us to be the best versions of ourselves. His leadership style and his commitment to excellence are qualities that left a lasting impact on my life.

1. Individualized Development: At Workhorse Academy, we focus on the specific needs of each athlete. Whether it’s shooting, ball handling, or improving basketball IQ, our training is tailored to enhance each player’s strengths and address areas for improvement.

2. Professional Coaching: Athletes will train under the guidance of experienced coaches, including Coach Bilal Benn, who brings years of expertise as a pro skills trainer. Our staff emphasizes both technical skills and mental toughness.

3. Holistic Approach: Beyond basketball skills, Workhorse Academy promotes overall athletic development. We incorporate agility, strength training, and conditioning into our sessions to build a well-rounded athlete.

4. Positive Environment: Our academy fosters a supportive and encouraging atmosphere. We believe in building confidence in every player while pushing them to reach their full potential.

5. Game IQ and Decision-Making: We focus on teaching athletes how to think the game, not just play it. Training includes developing basketball IQ and learning how to make smart decisions on the court.

6. Consistency and Accountability: We encourage athletes to train regularly, setting clear goals and holding them accountable for their progress. Parents will see the results in both their child’s skills and overall discipline.

7. Flexible Programs: Workhorse Academy offers a variety of training programs, including