Why I Coach
"I always thought I’d have a full playing career. I had all this energy that never got used. When that path didn’t work out, I turned to player development so I could stay close to the game I love—and become the kind of coach and mentor I needed when I was growing up. Now, I’m focused on helping athletes work through the same struggles and adversity I faced in my own basketball journey, so they can grow on and off the court."
Coach Vaughn sharpened his expertise within the 94FeetofGame program, training firsthand under the legendary Phil Handy. Having walked the same path, he made the transition from a dedicated player to a driven player development coach. During his formative years, Vaughn was mentored by Handy, a three-time NBA Champion who understands the elite standards of the sport.
Today, Vaughn maintains a strong connection to a network of world-class coaches, ensuring our players receive the same professional-grade technical guidance utilized at the highest levels of basketball..
Vaughn is incredibly grateful for the opportunities and blessings basketball has provided him. In return, he has committed himself to giving back to the game by serving athletes and their families, helping players achieve their greatest goals both on the court and in life.
About Me
"I founded Extra Hours Basketball in 2019 to honor the extra time and hard work required to succeed in this world. The name serves as a reminder that nothing is guaranteed; success is earned through repetition and dedication.
My own journey hasn’t always been easy. After years of navigating the politics and the business side of the professional basketball world, I lost my spark for the game and stepped away entirely to focus on my family. For three years, I didn't set foot in a gym. It wasn't until I started exercising again for my health that I rediscovered my passion. While shooting around one afternoon, I noticed a couple of high school players. Offering them a few tips that day brought back the same joy I felt for the game as a child. I began mentoring local athletes, not for the money, but to revive my own love for the sport.
That experience gave me a second life and a clear purpose. I committed to prioritizing player development above all else, knowing that if I focused on helping others navigate their own basketball journeys, success would follow naturally. This is how Extra Hours Basketball was born: out of a desire to turn athletes' dreams into reality through perseverance and genuine mentorship. It also provided me a chance to apply the lessons learned from my own career to guide the next generation toward their highest potential."
"I now understand why I went through what I went through in life—to gain the experiences I needed so I can help others through this game."
— Coach Vaughn Canta