Today we’d like to introduce you to Kalif Bakare.
Kalif, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always had extreme hoop dreams growing up in Alief. Basketball has been a part of my life ever since I could remember, all in the hopes that one day I would play in the NBA. I joined an AAU team in the 4th grade and that changed my life. It gave me the transition from playing basketball outside in the neighborhood to making real game-time decisions. After graduating from Alief Taylor HS where I was a three year letterman; First Team All-District junior and Senior year. Lead the varsity team to playoffs junior and senior year. I attended a division 2 school by the name of Tarleton St. where I played my freshman year. I was awarded “Freshman of The Year” in the Lone Star Conference that year and just knew I was a better player. I wanted to accomplish my dream of being a division 1 athlete. I transferred to University of Texas at San Antonio and joined the team where I played a couple of seasons. In 2011, we went dancing in the NCAA Tourney, which was one of the best moments of my life. Currently as a former Division 1 basketball player, not only do I train players, I host clinics and camps for players of All ages.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Some challenges I faced coming up is the politics side of basketball. Just like anything in life it’s all about “who you know.” Networking or having the support of others while you can focus and play the game is essential. There are far more resources nowadays for players, so I always encourage my players to use them. Life after basketball for me was a challenge as well, so many people were in shock when I made the transition from basketball to artist. I still get asked the question today, “Do you Still hoop?” lol. I’m thankful for basketball as my platform that inspired so many people, so it’s only right I give back to the game. I use the same energy and passion in my art.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Leaf’s Court – what should we know?
With a degree in Business Administration from University of Texas-San Antonio, I’m balancing my service for others, business ventures, and artistic vision to cultivate a crossover appeal that is rare while positively impacting all corners of the world.
After basketball I shifted into a creative phase. Kalif Bakare is a fashion connoisseur, musician/producer, creative director, actor, model, & basketball trainer. A jack of all trades, I’ve always managed to trend-set and stay ahead of the curve. I’m also Co-Founder/Co-CEO of GF Universal, LLC in which I created to house my business, humanitarian, and creative interests. As a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc, “serving and transcending all” has always been a facet of mines.
Leafs Court is my basketball training platform which specializes in the basketball workshops, personal training, camps, and clinics. What separates me from others is that I focus on more than just basketball. Mentorship is a major key for me; I bring the mental part of life in general into the picture. Game time decisions is key as well, letting the players know about the chess moves of the game, how to think ahead.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I give all Glory to the Almighty Allah for the gifts and blessings in my life. I thank my parents and family for raising me in a loving way, supporting me on my journey. Coach Adeline/ Coach Chris for keeping me on the court, traveling to all those AAU tournaments playing for Houston And1. Coach Willie my middle school coach for giving me tips and drills to improve my game in the summer. He was a superb mentor for me, I still use his drills til this day with my players. All the coaches from elementary to my college days who helped mold my game. High school Coach Durnford/ Coach Castanon who believed in me since freshman year. The GF Universal family is important to the success as well. All the people who have supported me from cheering at my basketball games to sharing my music.
Pricing:
- Basketball Camps: $25 per player
- Individual Basketball training: $40/per hour
- Weekly Training package (3 days a week 1 hour each) – $120
- Monthly Training Package (2 days a week 1 hour each) – $300
- Monthly Training Package (3 days a week 1 hour each) – $400
Contact Info:
- Phone: 832-659-8206
- Email: kalifbakare@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/leafscourt
Image Credit:
Credits for photos with yellow jersey: @_SirPatrick_; Image of Chicago Bulls white jacket @ShaytheShoota; Image of performing music: @iambleszedforlife; Image of Alief picture: @whoisro_; Image of turquoise suit: @x_sammyb
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
