RISE ACADEMY PHILADELPHIA
01
“Sam put me in situations where I could shine and of course it was an honor playing on the same AAU team as Kobe. He led me to a school where my talents could be displayed."
Richard Hamilton, NBA player and former UConn Husky
02
“I've known Big Sam and Little Sam for 30 years now. Every year since Little Sam has been coaching he has suggested me players that little to no one know about who turn out to be studs. He has really helped my career in the last 20 years."
Fran McCaffery, Head Coach of the University of Iowa
03
"I was a D3 player coming out of high school. Instead of signing, Sam told me to prep. After working out with him over the summer and getting more exposure I received a D1 scholarship to Notre Dame. Its not what you know its who you know."
Jimmy Dillon, Founder of 365 individual workouts and former Notre Dame Fighting Irish
04
"I've been with Sam since I was in 3rd grade. He helped me get a D1 scholarship and consults me as I continue my coaching career. He is always one of the first people I call up to discuss players and philosophies."
Ben Luber, Associate Head Coach at Binghamton University and former Penn State Nittany Lion
05
"Rise Academy saved my life. I had no way to get to college before I met Sam and entered the program. I just started playing basketball as a junior and only averaged 4 points in high school. I don't know where I would be right now without Rise Academy."
Taylor Bessick, Former James Madison University Bulldog - Currently at Iona University
06
“School was never my thing but Sam advised me to go to prep school. I was the number 2 ranked player in prep school when I was there and signed with UAB. When things went bad with school, Sam helped me find a job over seas."
Terrence Roderick, Over Seas Pro and former University of Alabama Birmingham Blazer
07
"I got cut every year in high school except my senior year and only scored 2 points ever but Sam always allowed me to play for him. Through the love of the game and the discipline I learned I was able to turn it into a business."
Jon Solomon, Sports Agent