Meet Journey Shank of JS3 Hoop Training

Today we’d like to introduce you to Journey Shank

Hi Journey, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My story is filled with plenty of adversity that shaped me into who I am, and while it took a lot of patience and commitment to God’s plan, I am grateful for the process and where I ended up. I started playing competitive basketball in middle school and it’s been my passion ever since. The ups and downs I have faced throughout my journey fueled my fire to keep going and prepared me for life.

Growing up playing in California, which is considered one of the top hoop states in the country, I learned that basketball has a special culture and there are levels to the game. As a young hooper, I was tested immediately to see what I was made of. I believe being out of my comfort zone in my early experiences built a strong mindset within me.

My love for the game grew over the years, and I was always determined to play at the professional level. I was blessed to play through all the levels and make my mark in the basketball world. From Attending Crescent Valley High School and earning a scholarship to play at Whittier College, to playing pro for one season in the UK for Essex Rebels, every experience has put me in the position I am today to run my own business and influence positive change with the athletes I work with.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Pursuing the game of basketball at a young age has taught me many lessons about life and myself. Being committed to the game built character traits within me that last beyond the court. Even when the road wasn’t smooth, it was always worth it.
I sustained two major knee injuries in these recent years that were caused me to pivot in life. During my senior year of college in 2021, I tore my ACL and meniscus. While I was abroad pursuing my professional career in 2023, I tore my meniscus again. Despite these injuries, I’ve gained a greater perspective on my purpose, and I learned there is beauty in the adversity we face.

Oddly enough during both periods of these injuries, I was finishing school. In 2021, I was completing my bachelors degree and while I was playing overseas in 2023, I was in the midst of earning my masters. Although it was a struggle to balance different challenges at once, I chose to give my hardships to God and let him lead the way. The injuries weren’t a part of the plan, however, I received lessons that I utilize everyday that make me better and a coach and person.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about JS3 Hoop Training?
In the summer of 2022, during the during my initial recovery of my ACL injury, I started my own business. JS3 Hoop Training and is a Sports Performance business that focuses on skill development and helping athletes reach their full potential. As a personal coach, I specialize in elevating players’ game to the next level by improving their skills, mindset, and basketball IQ. I believe what separates me from others is that I give my clients a detailed breakdown on how they can improve their game. One of the main ways I do this is by watching specific concepts on film then putting into to game like scenarios. From the point guard perspective, I like to structure my workouts a specific way that allows to athlete to read the game better.

My brand is about teaching athletes to be themselves and to embrace their journey. I take pride in getting my clients better and that means I have to hold myself accountable to be my best. I started my brand after my first injury when I realized I have a gift to help others. When I started my business, I wanted to be able to create an environment where their art can shine.

Similarly, basketball is an art and I believe providing a space where athletes can put their work on display is valuable. Although it’s just the beginning, I believe what I’m most proud brand wise is how it’s grown since I’ve come home from playing overseas. I’m grateful for the trust my clients put into me and it inspires me to see their development overtime. I’m excited for what the future held and how my brand will grow in this industry.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
I would tell anyone just starting out to not be afraid to fail and there’s never going to be a perfect time to create something you are passionate about. When I started my business, it wasn’t easy, but I trusted myself and knew that the service I could provide for others was important and meaningful.
I don’t necessarily feel like it’s about what I knew when I started but more about what it’s grown to be because I took a risk. I’ve come to learn throughout this process, that even when you don’t know how to do something, if you commit to it, you can accomplish anything. Creating my own business has taught me that you never know what you’re capable of until you try.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/journey.shank3?igsh=YzAwZjE1ZTI0Zg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr