MEET OUR COACHES/STAFF
Coach Jacob (Founder/Director)
Our owner, Coach Jacob Kuluwaimaka, played high school basketball, and while he didn’t make it at the college level, his love for the game never stopped. He continues to play today and believes his journey helps him relate to athletes who face setbacks and challenges along the way.
Coach Jacob began his coaching career in recreational softball and basketball, where he quickly discovered a passion for developing young athletes. That passion led him to opportunities at a higher level, including three years coaching with an elite AAU basketball program.
Driven by a desire to give back, Coach Jacob uses basketball as a platform to teach life lessons beyond the court. His message to athletes is simple but powerful: “you don’t have to accept the first “no.” With continued hard work, belief, and perseverance, a “yes” will come.”
Through True Aspiration Athletics, Coach Jacob is committed to helping players build confidence, discipline, and resilience, teaching them to aspire to greatness while staying true to who they are both on and off the court.
Coach Ed
My name is Edward Ongkingco. I go by Coach Ed. I’m an AAU basketball coach driven by passion, purpose, and grit. My deep love for the game of basketball fuels everything I do — from high-energy practices to intense tournament moments. Coaching isn’t just something I do; it’s something I truly care about.
I have a strong passion for shooting and skill development. I believe great shooters are built through repetition, discipline, confidence, and attention to detail. From footwork to follow-through, I teach my players that consistency and hard work separate good from great.
Beyond the court, I believe sports are one of the greatest tools for life. Basketball teaches resilience, accountability, leadership, and perseverance. My goal is to build grit in every athlete I coach — preparing them not just for competition, but for success in school, careers, and whatever challenges they face in the future. STAY TRUE!
Coach David
My name is David Bingham. I attended O’Dea high school playing sports all 4 years. After high school, I attended Washington state university where I walked on for basketball.
During college, I decided the coaching side of basketball was my joy. So in my junior and senior year of college, I helped with video coordination and scout for the WSU women’s basketball team . After graduating I planted roots in Burien Washington, where I currently coach high school women’s basketball.
Coach Chris
Hello, My name is Chris Balansag. I played varsity basketball at Foster High School, where I built my foundation in discipline, teamwork, and competitive drive. I currently serve as an Assistant Girls Basketball Coach at Evergreen High School and am excited to begin my first season coaching AAU basketball.
I’m eager to continue learning new coaching styles, expanding my skill development knowledge, and growing in the game alongside my athletes. With a background in education and restorative practices, I value building strong relationships, accountability, and a team culture that develops confident, high-IQ players on and off the court.
Coach Brad
I’m from a small town in West Virginia called Charles Town. I played ball at Washington High School. I have been coaching for a little over 5 years now. Started at the middle school level and currently serves as the Assistant Coach for Lakes High School Girls Program. Coaching gave me opportunities that I never thought I would come across. My core values are building my players up to be their best version of themselves.
That can look like the following:
- Knowing your identity: find your role and master it!
- Character and Consistency: Respecting the game and holding myself & the players accountable.
- Adding value daily: this can look different for every player! Making yourself and those around you better in life and in this beautiful game.
- Growth mindset, not fixed mindset: I can’t or I won’t limit us from our greatest potential. Leaders are always learning, never satisfied with basics!!
This will be my first year as an AAU coach. AAU looks a little different since I played but I’m excited to continue to learn and grow as a coach.
Coach Trin
Hi I’m Trin, I played basketball all throughout high school. Basketball taught me many valuable lessons and skills that I still apply to my life today that I feel is very important for all kids to learn.
Currently I am a full time preschool teacher. Teaching the next generation is something I have always been passionate about because everyone deserves to have the right support and love outside of their home. I am very excited to start coaching basketball because I get to experience two of my favorite things at once, teaching and basketball!
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