About Us

Handlelife Academy is more than just a place to improve your game. It's a community built on discipline, a common goal, and the conviction that basketball has the power to transform lives.

We open our doors to athletes of every age and skill level, whether you're a beginner or a veteran pursuing college and professional aspirations. We cultivate growth in every athlete, both on and off the court, through carefully designed programs, expert coaching, and a culture that emphasizes accountability. Handlelife Academy runs out of Handlelife HQ in Chatsworth, CA — a training and mentorship hub built by Johnny Stephene, better known as Dribble2Much.

What Handlelife Academy Has to Offer

We provide a wide range of programs designed to meet athletes where they are and take them where they want to go. Whether you are looking for structured youth development, elite competitive training, or a space to host your next event, Handlelife is built for it.

Our Staff

Johnny Stephene

Coach Johnny Stephene

Owner & Program Director

A former professional player and globally recognized skills trainer with 15 years of experience developing athletes, mentoring youth, and creating real pathways to success through basketball.

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Coach Steve Johnson

Coach Steve Johnson

Youth Development Program Leader

Coached Players of the Year, All-Americans, and multiple All-Conference athletes, helping players reach the next level. Helped lead college programs to Top 25 national rankings and conference championships.

Marcellis Raymond

Marcellis Raymond

Videographer/Editor

Creative videographer and video editor with experience producing high-impact visual content for live events, classes, hospitality, and lifestyle brands. Skilled in storytelling through cinematic visuals.

Mariam Aryeetey

Mariam Aryeetey

Administrator

A communications and nonprofit professional passionate about youth empowerment, education, and gender equality. She brings strong skills in project management, and partnership building.

Why Choose Handlelife Academy?

Why Choose Handlelife

Athlete training involves more than just physical fitness. At Handlelife, we focus on shaping character, boosting confidence, and fostering leadership, all while refining basketball abilities.

Every drill, every practice, and every shared experience is designed to transform young athletes into strong, determined people, ready to learn and equipped to face life's hurdles, both on and off the court.

We carefully consider the coaches we bring on board, the equipment we provide, and the programs we offer, all with the aim of giving every athlete a genuine opportunity to improve. Here's what you can anticipate:

  • Coaches with experience playing at the collegiate and professional levels, present at every session.
  • A well-defined, organized approach to mastering both basic and advanced skills.
  • Significant strides have been made in self-confidence, court awareness, and the commitment necessary to compete at a high level.
  • Elite teams and showcase events offer chances to connect with college programs.
  • A supportive community that encourages you to push yourself and improve.
  • Academic mentorship and assistance, made possible by the Handlelife Legacy Foundation.

Our Core Values

Discipline

It all starts here. You see it in how athletes prepare, how they carry themselves, and how they take on challenges.

Excellence

From coaching to programming, we're locked in on giving every athlete what they need to perform at their highest level.

Community

Growth is a team sport, too. We build an environment where athletes push, challenge, and support each other.

Leadership

Our goal extends beyond cultivating athletes. The habits, mindset, and character are meant to carry our athletes for life.

Mission

"We're here for one reason: to make sure every athlete has access to the training, mentorship, and opportunity to reach their full potential. Handlelife Academy brings expert coaching, structured skill work, and real community investment together to bring the best out of every player. Our programs challenge and motivate athletes at every stage, preparing them for competition and beyond."

Vision

"We're after a future where no young athlete's potential is limited by their background or circumstances. Where players and coaches grow together, where basketball is a tool for education and leadership, and where the character built through the process is considered just as much a win. Handlelife Academy is committed to sending every athlete out the door ready for the court, the classroom, and life."

Train With the Best. Become Your Best. Handlelife Academy.

Join a community of driven athletes training under expert coaches at Handlelife Academy.
Take the next step in your development today.

Register & Enroll