ISM BASKETBALL ACADEMY
The ISM Basketball Academy combines elite basketball development with a top-ranked college-preparatory education in a highly personalized environment built for serious student-athletes. Through individualized attention, expert coaching, and a world-class academic experience, we help every student-athlete reach their full academic, athletic, and personal potential — preparing them to succeed in college, competition, and life.
Athletics
Develop advanced skills, confidence, and discipline through elite training and high-level competition.
Academics
Receive a premier college-preparatory education with personalized support and global perspective.
Built into the school day, August - March development season.
Built into the school day, August - March development season.
Lifelong Success
Gain the tools, mindset, and experiences needed to thrive beyond the classroom and the court.
DEVELOPMENT BY DESIGN
Most athletes train after school. The ISM Global Basketball Academy is designed differently.
Built into the school day, the program creates a structured environment where elite basketball development and rigorous academic work together — not in conflict. Student-athletes train consistently throughout an extended competitive season while developing within a college-preparatory setting designed for long-term success on and off the court.
Skill development, performance training, academics, mentorship, and
personalized support — all integrated into one
intentional experience.
LEARN FROM THE HIGHEST LEVEL
The ISM Global Basketball Academy is being built around a structured development model led by experienced basketball leadership and supported by a growing team of coaches, trainers, and performance staff.
Led by veteran NBA player Chris Carr, the ISM Basketball Academy coaching staff brings elite playing and coaching experience to every student-athlete. Chris played professionally in the NBA and Europe, coached collegiate men’s and women’s basketball, and has helped 77 student-athletes earn college scholarships — with 27 advancing to play professionally. Supported by additional coaches with collegiate playing backgrounds and more than 30 years of coaching experience, the Academy provides highly personalized development to help every athlete reach their full potential on and off
the court.
BUILT FOR BIGGER OPPORTUNITIES
Student-athletes compete in
tournaments across the United States, with select opportunities for
international competition and global experiences. The Academy team also
competes in the Grid Session League, providing consistent exposure to
high-level competition and college recruiting opportunities throughout the
season. Through this integrated experience — combining elite basketball
training, academics, wellness, mentorship, and future planning — students are
prepared for opportunities that extend far beyond the game.
NCAA Recruiting Guidance
Support and mentorship throughout the college recruiting and placement process.
Performance Analytics
Ongoing athlete evaluation and development tracking to support measurable growth.
Media Training
Preparing for the spotlight by enhancing interview skills, public speaking, professional presence, and NIL readiness.
Nutrition Support
High quality meals prepared by ISM's executive chef and nutrition education designed for student-athletes.
Experienced Coaching Staff
Certified coaches with competitive basketball backgrounds committed to long-term player development.
Leadership & Character
A development model focused on communication, discipline, leadership, accountability, and personal growth.
Player Development
Position-specific training, strength and conditioning, recovery and mobility, and film study, game planning, decision making, and more.
MULTIPLE PATHWAYS FOR DEVELOPMENT
ISM Basketball Academy
A high-performance development and
travel model featuring:
- Compete in The Grind Session elite basketball circuit
- Global tournament competition
- Extended season structure
- Integrated training approach
MSHSL Team
Students may also compete within the traditional Minnesota State High School League model while continuing to benefit from ISM’s basketball development environment.
ONE POWERFUL COMBINATION
The ISM Basketball Academy is part of International School of
Minnesota—ranked the #1 private school in Minnesota four years
in a row.
Student-athletes develop within a college-preparatory environment intentionally designed to prepare students not only for college, but for success in a rapidly changing and globally connected world. Through small class sizes and personalized support, students are challenged academically while receiving the attention and mentorship needed to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
Whether pursuing basketball at the collegiate or professional level—or building a future beyond the game—students are encouraged to grow as leaders, communicators, and globally minded individuals.
Academics
Rigorous academics and personalized support inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and confidence—preparing students to excel in university and beyond.
College Counseling
Personalized college
counseling guides students and families through every step of the university
journey, helping students discover their strengths, goals, and best-fit
opportunities.
SABIS Student Life Organization®
SLO empowers students to lead, collaborate, and build community through events, service initiatives, and activities that enrich campus life.
OUTCOMES THAT SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES
#1
Ranked Private School in MN
100%
College Acceptance Rate
3
Years Consecutive AP Honor Roll Platinum Recognition
35K+
Graduates join a global network of alumni connections
LOCAL AND BOARDING OPTIONS
ISM welcomes both local and boarding student-athletes seeking a structured environment focused on long-term development and academic success.
The ISM Residence Hall features shared and single-occupancy rooms along with modern amenities including designated study spaces, a fitness center, recreation areas, theater space, and laundry facilities. With residence hall supervisors on duty 24/7, students benefit from a supportive environment where academic success, personal growth, and community life go hand in hand.
INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE
The ISM Basketball Academy offers a fully integrated student-athlete experience that combines elite basketball development, personalized support, and premier college-preparatory education.
Merit-based scholarships and financial support opportunities are available for qualified student-athletes, helping make this experience accessible to talented and motivated students seeking an intentional path toward long-term success.
EXPLORE THE ISM BASKETBALL ACADEMY
The inaugural ISM Basketball Academy cohort is now forming for students entering grades 8–10. Designed for driven student-athletes, the Academy combines elite basketball development, personalized support, and a world-class education in one intentional experience.
Build your game. Elevate your future. Discover what’s possible at ISM.