About Us

Mission & Vision

Founded in 2017, Jumpstart Basketball is dedicated to offering student-athletes the opportunity to learn and master the fundamental skills of basketball while also instilling essential life values such as hard work, teamwork, discipline, respect, and sportsmanship. Our high priority on skill development is reflected in our diverse programs, including camps, clinics, leagues, and competitive travel teams for grades K-12, ensuring that each athlete reaches their fullest potential both on and off the court.

Our vision is to provide a supportive and enriching environment where student-athletes can develop their basketball skills at all levels—whether they are recreational players looking to enhance their abilities for fun or advanced athletes driven by competitive goals. Through a focus on superior skill development, life lessons, and the enjoyment of the game, we aim to prepare athletes for success both on the court and in life.

Leadership Team

Alex Geisel - Founder, CEO, COO

Born and raised in Millbury, Ohio, Alex Geisel was a standout player and at Millbury Lake High School and holds a B.A. in Psychology from Bowling Green State University. His coaching resume includes over a decade of skill development training, specializing in post player skill development. Recently, he has served as Head Academy Basketball Coach at Toledo St. John's from 2020 to 2023 and is currently a Varsity Assistant Boys Basketball Coach at Oregon Clay High School.

As the Founder, Owner and CEO of Jumpstart Basketball, Geisel provides the strategic vision and leadership for the program while managing daily operations, business development, and fundraising efforts. His commitment to player development and community engagement continues to drive the growth and success of Jumpstart Basketball.

Lamar Rice - Founder of Rice Basketball Academy, AAU Director, Lead Skill Trainer

Born and raised in Flint, Michigan, Lamar Rice had a standout collegiate career at Mott Community College, Georgetown College, and Clemson University before being signed by the New York Knicks in 2005 as an undrafted free agent. He spent one season in the NBA G-League before playing professionally for 10 years in Japan’s top basketball league, the JBL. Rice holds a B.A. in Psychology from Georgetown College and currently resides in Maumee, Ohio.

As the Founder and CEO of Rice Basketball Academy (RBA), Rice provides strategic leadership and vision for the AAU program, including the recruitment of players and coaches. His extensive playing experience and passion for player development continue to shape the next generation of athletes.

Saundra Brown - Founder of Toledo Threat & Director of Girl's Basketball

Sandi Brown is a former Division I and professional basketball player with a passion for developing young athletes. A Toledo native, she played at the University of Detroit Mercy, where she was a three-year captain, earned MVP and All-Conference honors, and remains among the Top 20 rebounders in program history. She continued her career professionally in Germany and the U.S., including a WNBA tryout with the Tulsa Shock.

As the Director of Girls Basketball for Jumpstart Basketball and Owner of Toledo Threat, Brown leads skill development and training programs for young female athletes and manages our girls AAU programming.