Hoop Connection’s coaches are dedicated to developing boys and girls on and off the court - building skill, character, and a winning mindset.
Our Coaches
ISAIAH JONES
From a young age, Coach Isaiah Jones developed his passion and discipline through basketball, which remained central to his growth. He attended Shadow Mountain High School, playing under former NBA player Mike Bibby, where he won two state championships and earned a spot in the DICK’S National Tournament. He was also ranked the No. 4 player in the state of Arizona.
Isaiah continued his academic and athletic career at Biola University, making an immediate impact by earning both Freshman of the Year and Newcomer of the Year honors. He later transferred to Connors State College, where he earned First Team All-Conference recognition and McDonald’s JUCO All-American honors. Over his collegiate career, Isaiah received 51 scholarship offers.
After completing his associate degree at Connors State, he narrowed his final choices to Boise State, Washington State, and Southern Miss before committing to the University of Southern Mississippi. There, he earned his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and began pursuing his master’s degree in the same field.
Today, Coach Jones is a dedicated educator teaching computer science and an AAU basketball coach committed to developing young athletes on and off the court. He focuses on building strong fundamentals, character, and confidence in every player.
Isaiah is married to his wife, Juliana, and together they have a son, Isaiah Emmanuel Jones.
HEAD COACH - FOUNDER/DIRECTOR
JAMES JONES
Coach James Jones was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, before moving to Texas at the age of 12. He has called Texas home ever since. He graduated from Pflugerville High School in 2014 and went on to attend Blinn College in Brenham, where he earned his associate degree in 2017.
Later that year, James transferred to Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant, Oklahoma. He graduated in May 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in Sports Recreation Management and a minor in Education.
In the fall of 2020, James began his career at Dessau Middle School in Austin, Texas, where he continues to serve today. He coaches football, girls basketball, and track, working closely with student-athletes both on and off the field.
Outside of school, James is a dedicated youth minister at St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church, the same church he has attended since moving to Texas with his mother. He is passionate about mentoring young people and takes pride in helping them grow into the best version of themselves.
COACH - Girls 14U, 16U
Coach Shanda Hansen brings over 10 years of experience working with athletes ages 5–17 across a variety of basketball programs. She focuses on building strong fundamentals, teaching the value of teamwork, and helping players grow with confidence on and off the court.
Coach Hansen is excited to be part of Hoop Connection, where he’s committed to developing players and preparing them for the next level of competition.
COACH - Girls 14U, 16USHANDA HANSEN
COACH - Boys 11Uxavier watson
Coach Xavier Watson brings high-level playing experience and strong energy to the program. A skilled combo guard, he made his mark as both a scorer and a playmaker, with the ability to control tempo and create opportunities for teammates.
He first gained collegiate attention as a prospect for Hastings College before continuing his career at Ranger College. He later committed to Schreiner University and went on to play at Texas A&M University–San Antonio, where he helped lead his team to a conference tournament runner-up finish and earned Most Improved Player honors.
Throughout his career, Coach Watson developed a reputation for scoring at all three levels and making those around him better. He also competed in overseas combines, gaining valuable experience against diverse, high-level international talent.
In addition to his playing background, Coach Watson has already made an impact as a coach. He has worked with AAU programs and led the club team at Texas A&M University–San Antonio. His coaching style focuses on player development, basketball IQ, and building confidence, helping athletes grow both on and off the court.
COACH - Boys 14U, 16U
Ruben….