CORE3 MENTOR
JALEN HILL
My basketball journey has taken me from Clark High School to the University of Oklahoma, UNLV, and professional basketball. I have experienced both the rewards and challenges of the game, and I want to use those experiences to help young athletes build confidence, overcome adversity, and grow as players and people.
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Why I Mentor
I joined Core3 because I want to give back to young athletes and provide guidance and opportunities I wish I had growing up. My fifth-grade coach, Vern Smith, saw something in me before I saw it in myself. He pushed me to believe I could get to where I am today. That relationship showed me how much one person can change an athlete's journey, and I want to be that kind of mentor for someone else.
What I Wish I Understood Earlier
I wish I had understood earlier how important it is to find joy in the game and in whatever you do in life. It's easy to put too much pressure on yourself after a bad game, but one performance doesn't define you. I want young athletes to take their goals seriously, learn from difficult moments, and still have fun doing what they love.
What Shaped How I Mentor
Coming back from a torn ACL was the hardest challenge of my basketball career. It made me realize that nothing in this game is promised. I had to work even harder for what I wanted, but the experience also helped me fall back in love with basketball. It taught me to appreciate every opportunity and keep working through setbacks. I want athletes to understand that difficult moments can help them grow if they keep believing in themselves and putting in the work.
What Good Mentorship Looks Like
To me, good mentorship starts with a genuine relationship. I want the athletes I work with to feel comfortable asking questions, being honest about what they're going through, and coming to me when they need help. The better I know an athlete, the better I can find ways to bring out their best. I focus on building confidence and developing skills that matter off the court too, like communication, discipline, organization, and accountability. I want to be a mentor they trust and a role model they can learn from.
