After School Activity Leaders Who Rock Hong Kong: Ike Nwankwo Of Top Flight Basketball Academy

Passionate about basketball, Ike Nwankwo of Top Flight Basketball Academy is one of the city’s most accomplished players, having played for six NBA teams. In short, he’s an After School Activity Leader that really rocks Hong Kong!

Not familiar with Top Flight Basketball Academy? Check out the website and find out more about after school programs, the Weekend Academy for Mini Flyers (ages 4-8 years), Cadets (age 9-12) and Aviators (ages 13-18 years), and the Elite Program, with girls’ and boys’ teams available.

Here, Ike tells Little Steps why kids love coming to play basketball with him. He also explains why he went back to school 20 years after graduating from UCLA…

Tell us a bit about yourself
I’m a retired professional basketball player originally from the US. I played basketball for UCLA, where I was a member of the 1995 NCAA National Championship Team. I graduated from UCLA with a degree in Communications Studies. I’ve played for six NBA teams in more than 20 countries and recently completed my first year at Harvard Law School. I went back to school 20 years after I graduated from UCLA. I hope to inspire my students and show them anything is possible if you work hard.

What inspired you to start your business?
Giving back to the game has given me so much. I have a passion for teaching and mentoring kids.

Why do kids love coming to your after school activities?
Because we give each child a significant amount of attention. We try to keep the environment challenging but also a lot of fun. Our goal is for children to be excited to come to our classes.

What do you feel kids take away from your activities?
In addition to the expert basketball instruction from qualified coaches, we instill confidence in our students by challenging them to be their best selves. We are invested in the success of each one of our students, and the kids feel safe in that environment.

Can you share your favorite things to do in Hong Kong? 
I love to go hiking while I am in Hong Kong – there are so many beautiful trails. I also enjoy practising hot yoga.