Coach V has been passionate about the game of basketball since she was 7 yrs old. She played through her elementary school years, was a four year varsity starter and MVP at Maria High School (Chicago, IL), a six year AAU athlete (Windy City, Chicago Flames, Chicago Hoops Express) and played two years at the collegiate level at Moraine Valley Community College (Palos Hills, IL).  

After college Coach V knew she wanted to continue teaching the game to our youth. During high school off seasons she enjoyed volunteering at her sibling's elementary school assisting with basketball practices. As an adult she volunteered at park district leagues and summer camps, as well as college open gyms, but due to her work schedule she wasn't able to fully commit to coaching. 

In 2020 as Coach V prepared to move from Chicago, IL to Goodyear, AZ she was focused on prioritizing coaching. Since then she has been the boys and girls Estrella Mountain Elementary Basketball Head Coach (2021-2024), EMR  Hoops Commisioner (2023), Owner and Head Coach of the Elite Valley Aces Club Basketball Program (established in 2023), and recently accepted the Desert Edge High School Girls Basketball Assistant Varsity Coach position for the 24-25 season. 

Coach V is a dynamic and passionate basketball coach dedicated to mentoring our youth both on and off the court. She creates an inclusive environment where every player feels valued and empowered. Her coaching philosophy centers around the idea that success is not solely measured by wins and losses but by the personal development of each player and their ability to apply what they learn in basketball to their everyday lives. Through her leadership, Coach V is shaping the future of the sport and the lives of countless young players, making a profound difference in their journeys both on and off the court. She's grateful to be living her purpose!

Coach Nelly grew up playing multiple sports (soccer, basketball, baseball, football) in his local recreational leagues as a child. He eventually developed a love for basketball and soccer. Through his middle school years he played basketball for his school, while playing club soccer all year round with Phoenix United. This continued from the time he was 8 years old all the way through the oldest club age group U19. His club participated annually in the Arizona state tournament along with all of the best teams in the state. His father always coached his teams growing up and was very selfless with all of their teammates. This gave Coach Nelly a behind the scenes look into not only coaching but everything that goes into organizing and coordinating successful club programs.

In high school, Coach Nelly played two years of basketball (point guard) and two years of soccer (center midfielder) at Agua Fria High School where he served as the team captain. He was surrounded by great programs in both sports as the varsity basketball team made it to back-to-back state championships although they fell just short of the title and two appearances in the semi-finals for soccer. Soccer and basketball run simultaneously during the school year, but he was able to experience two years of both of his passions. 

After high school, Coach Nelly had the opportunity to play community college soccer at Phoenix College and Glendale Community College, but chose to attend Arizona State University on an academic scholarship earning his Bachelor’s degree in marketing. He encourages all his athletes to prioritize both education and athletics. Nelly also serves as a resource to our youth and is happy to assist players interested in pursuing higher education. 

Coach Nelly found himself frequently playing and coaching basketball at the park with his son and his friends, which very organically led him to joining Coach V’s training staff with the Aces. He’s excited to learn from such a great coach and be a great role model to the kids.