Our Philosophy & Mission

At I-45 Elite, we provide the most affordable youth basketball training in Houston specifically designed for elementary and middle school students. We know that many of our athletes are multi-sport athletes, which is why we offer flexible scheduling and a "Pay As You Play" model that requires no long-term commitments.

Our coaching goes beyond the scoreboard. We specialize in skill development through hands-on demonstration and positive reinforcement. We believe that mistakes are learning opportunities, which is why our environment is built on patience—never punishment or laps. Whether your child is just starting or preparing for high school ball, we are here to help them master the fundamentals and truly love the journey.

Our Team

  • I-45 ELITE | Youth Basketball Team North Houston.

    Shanell Noble

    Owner

    As the Owner of this organization, I bring both a professional and a deeply personal passion to everything we do.

    Professionally, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), specializing in two areas that require incredible patience and understanding: autism and ADHD. My background is in recognizing and nurturing the unique strengths in every individual, understanding that true development comes from a supportive and structured environment.

    I believe wholeheartedly that everyone deserves a chance to be a part of something amazing. Basketball is simply the vehicle we use to build confidence, discipline, and belonging. I look at every athlete on our roster and genuinely love these kids like they are my own.

    When you choose to join this team, you are not just signing up for basketball drills; you are becoming part of a community. You are officially part of the I-45 family! This means you can expect an environment where mental health is valued, individual needs are recognized, and every player is given the chance to grow, succeed, and find their place.

  • I-45 Elite youth basketball team in North Houston focusing on skill development and teamwork.

    Coach David (David Noble)

    Coach

    Losing a child was the most devastating event of my life, but becoming a basketball coach helped save me. Stepping onto the court wasn't just about teaching the game; it was about finding purpose, connection, and a community to pour my heart into.

    That purpose began with my daughter, Destinee Love. I've had the immense privilege of coaching her, and her teammates, for the last eight years—starting with I9 Sports, moving through Farm League, and now at the AAU level. This journey, built from the ground up, is the soul of our organization.

    As the Coach and Owner, my mission is to build more than just a successful basketball club; I aim to build a truly supportive community. Every decision we make is guided by the philosophy we live by:

    Love the Game, Love the Team, Love the Journey!

    This isn't just a motto—it’s our culture. We teach our athletes to love the game by respecting its fundamentals and demanding continuous effort. We love the team by emphasizing communication, accountability, and selfless play. And we love the journey by embracing the hard work, the challenges, and the lifelong lessons that happen both on and off the court.

    I am dedicated to ensuring this program remains a positive, developmental, and transformative experience for every young woman who steps onto our court.

  • Elite basketball coach providing hands-on demonstration and positive reinforcement for middle school athletes.

    Destinee Love Noble

    Team Captain

    Basketball isn't just a sport for me—it's been a part of my life since I was three years old. I can honestly say I grew up on the court.

    That early passion led to something special: My parents started this team so I could play alongside others who shared my absolute dedication to the game and, just as importantly, my commitment to their teammates. From those first practices, we built something unique.

    This isn't just a roster; we are a family, both on and off the court.

    As your Captain, my focus is on maintaining that foundation. It means bringing energy and leadership to every practice, making sure every player feels valued, and holding myself and my teammates accountable. We push each other to be our best, celebrate every success, and lift each other up after every tough loss.

  • Affordable basketball training in Houston with a pro trainer and flexible scheduling for all athletes.

    Robert Konteh

    Trainer

    My passion for the game has taken me far: I spent years as an overseas professional basketball player, competing in five different countries across Europe and Latin America. That journey taught me about different coaching styles, different levels of competition, and—most importantly—what it takes to win when the pressure is highest.

    I don't just talk about the game's past; I'm actively engaged in its present. I currently keep my skills sharp and my knowledge current by playing professional basketball right here locally. This ensures the training I bring to your daughters is relevant, modern, and effective.

    I am big on development, and that goes beyond just the court. My focus is on translating my pro-level experience into fundamental, repeatable skills that build true competence and confidence. I emphasize the work ethic, basketball IQ, and mental toughness that separates good players from great ones.

    Ultimately, my goal is simple: to give back to the community and the younger generation. I view my role as a mentor, using basketball as a powerful tool to help these young women grow into resilient, disciplined, and successful individuals, both on the court and in life. I look forward to working with your team.