United Skills Academy Joins the Made Hoops West Challenger High School Circuit

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PHOENIX, AZ — 1/13/26

United Skills Academy announced today that it has officially joined the Made Hoops West Challenger High School Circuit, one of the nation’s leading independent platforms for elite high school basketball competition.

United Skills Academy will compete in the 17U and 16U divisions, placing its top student-athletes in a highly competitive, exposure-driven environment recognized for college visibility and long-term player development.

“Joining the Made Hoops West Challenger Circuit represents a major step forward for our program,” said Gregory Strickling, Director of United Skills Academy. “This circuit aligns with our commitment to elite competition, disciplined development, and providing our athletes with access to nationally respected platforms.”

Founded in 2014, Made Hoops has grown into one of the largest independent grassroots basketball ecosystems in North America, hosting more than 125 events annually and serving over 100,000 student-athletes across the United States and Canada. The Made Hoops West Challenger Circuit is widely regarded for its structured competition model and strong presence among college recruiters.

“United Skills Academy brings a competitive, development-first approach that fits well within the Challenger Circuit,” said Nick Hamilton, representative for Made Hoops. “We’re excited to welcome them into the West and look forward to seeing their teams compete at a high level.”

Made Hoops’ continued national expansion reflects growing institutional investment in the grassroots basketball space. The initiatives come on the heels of a strategic investment led by SC Holdings and LRMR Ventures, the family office of LeBron James and Maverick Carter. Additional investors include Kevin Durant and Rich Kleiman’s Boardroom Sports Holdings, and NBA All-Star Paolo Banchero. ( PR newswire Article)

Through its participation in the Made Hoops West Challenger High School Circuit, United Skills Academy strengthens its pathway for student-athletes seeking high-level competition, college exposure, and comprehensive development both on and off the court.

About United Skills Academy

United Skills Academy is a competitive youth basketball program focused on elite skill development, academic accountability, and character building. The academy provides structured training and national competition opportunities designed to prepare student-athletes for collegiate and post-secondary success.

About Made Hoops

Made Hoops is a national grassroots basketball platform hosting elite boys’ and girls’ events across the United States and Canada. Known for its independent circuits and exposure-driven model, Made Hoops connects student-athletes with high-level competition, college coaches, and long-term development opportunities.