Training Young Athletes in Connecticut"
Founded in 2015 by a former Division I basketball player who led the CCSU men’s basketball team to its first NEC championship and an NCAA tournament bid, the business specializes in helping aspiring athletes in Newington and Hartford, Connecticut, elevate their game. It offers personalized one-on-one training, group sessions, and skill assessments using game-proven drills and fundamentals to help players of all levels reach their full potential. Flexible scheduling, video analysis, and tailored training plans ensure each athlete receives the attention and tools needed to succeed on and off the court.
The founder started BAP basketball training to give back to the basketball community, inspired by the support he wished he had growing up in Brooklyn, NY. Beginning with his son as the first client, the program has grown into a trusted training hub for young athletes and basketball enthusiasts. What sets the business apart is the founder’s genuine passion for the game and his ability to relate to players—because he was once in their shoes. Becomeaplayer Basketball builds strong relationships, motivates hard work, and provides mentorship that transforms not just skills, but confidence and love for the game.
Meet The Founder
Tomas Brookins
Lead Basketball Trainer
Tomas Brookins was raised in the vibrant city of Brooklyn, New York. He completed his high school education at the renowned Erasmus Hall High School, where his skills as a point guard shone brightly as he led the team to victory in the PSAL championship at the famous Madison Square Garden.
Continuing his basketball journey, Tomas enrolled at Genesee Community College (GCC), where he had the privilege of playing under the guidance of Coach Bill Van Gundy, the father of esteemed NBA coaches Stan and Jeff Van Gundy. During his time at GCC, Tomas's outstanding performance earned him a spot on the First Team All-Conference, playing a vital role in leading the team to the conference championship.
Tomas's impressive abilities on the court did not go unnoticed, and he was awarded a full scholarship to Central Connecticut State University, a Division I institution, where he played under the tutelage of Coach Howie Dickenman. Serving as the starting point guard, Tomas played a pivotal role in leading the Blue Devils to their first-ever Northeast Conference (NEC) championship. This victory secured the team an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament, where they faced off against Iowa State University as a 15th seed.
Throughout his college career, Tomas had the honor of being coached by esteemed individuals such as Steve Pickle, the head coach of Ruckus University, Anthony Latina, the head coach of Sacred Heart University, and Patrick Sellers, the head coach of Central Connecticut State University. Their guidance and mentorship undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping Tomas's basketball journey.