Aim High ACADEMY
Year-Round Basketball Training For The Serious Player.
"I have nothing in common with lazy people who blame others for their lack of success." -Kobe Bryant
ABOUT US
Aim High Academy
Aim High Academy is a year-round basketball training academy for serious basketball players of all ages & abilities. We offer individual training, small group training, camps, club teams, leagues, tournaments, a high school prep team, and a post graduate team. Our experienced coaches are committed to helping players reach their full potential and become leaders on and off the court.
Our FOUNDER.
At Aim High Academy, we have been helping basketball players reach their goals since 1971. Our family-owned and operated basketball school has a long-standing history of success and has helped hundreds of players achieve their dreams of playing college and professional basketball.
Our coaches operate from the Aim High basketball philosophy book, which is based on the fundamentals of the game and teaches players how to become outstanding ballhandlers, shooters, and defenders. We offer a variety of programs designed to help players of all ages and abilities reach their highest potential -Gerald Ernst Jr.
OUR TRAINING PROGRAMS
Our training programs are designed to help players of all levels improve their skills and become the best basketball players they can be. We offer a wide range of programs, including individual training, small group training, camps, club teams, leagues, tournaments, a high school prep team, and a post graduate team. Our experienced coaches will help you develop your skills and reach your full potential on the court.
Walter Pitchford
I write this not just as a player, but as someone whose life was deeply impacted by a coach, a mentor, and an unwavering pillar of support. When I first met Coach Steve Ernst, he saw something in me that was different from what others saw. Under his guidance, I was given the platform to evolve and prove that I was among the top 10 prep school players in the country, eventually earning the honor of being ranked 9th nationally and being recognized as the best player in Michigan.
Coach Ernst was more than just a coach; he was a beacon of mentorship. He never just taught us the game, but he instilled in us values, discipline, and the relentless drive to surpass our perceived limitations. Being projected as an NBA lottery pick by college and nba coaches wasn't just a testament to my abilities, but a reflection of the profound influence Coach Ernst had on my game and on my life.
I stand here today, humbled by the opportunities and accolades, knowing that behind my journey is the Ernst family name—a name synonymous with excellence, dedication, and transformative mentorship in the realm of basketball.
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Steve Ernst opened the doors to the Aim High Basketball Academy in Lansing, Michigan in 1992. Starting a trend in sports training facilities, Steve's vision of a year-round sport-specific training center has been imitated throughout the country.
Steve was also a coach during the initial post graduate basketball build-up. His teams were considered one of the best as they went up against the original top teams in the country.
He has won leagues championships at every level of the game as a former player and coach,
Steve Ernst has seen his share of success. For him though, it's all about the relationships he builds with his players. Coach Ernst has sent well over 100 players to the Division 1 level and is well into the 1000's of players who have gone on to compete in college and pros combined!
Testimonials
"It was an amazing experience to be a part of the Aim High family. I've never felt so confident and strong in my personal life and my basketball career. Aim High was one of the best part of my life. Coach Erika and Aim High staff helped me become who I am today. Aim High made me feel secure when I was with them away from my parents. Glad to be able to know Coach Erika, Coach Ernst, Mrs. E, and Coach Desir. It was so fun to spend my two years with Aim High."
-Meric Kuntker, Pro Petkimspor Turkey
Aim High came to Charlotte when I was in grade school. Basketball soon became a way of life in our little town.
Some of the best memories I have growing up come from being in the gym with Coach Ernst!
The lessons Coach taught us weren’t just about basketball. They were life lessons! If you’re not giving 100% then you’re wasting everyone’s time! The way he demanded excellence helped shape me into who I am today!
Coach Ernst I can’t thank you enough for everything!
Actually I want to thank Coach Ernst, Mrs. Ernst, Coach Steve Ernst, and Coach Erika Ernst for being family. I know we aren’t blood but you guys mean the world to me!!!
Troy Gardner, Police Detective
"Aim High Academy was an important stepping stone on my journey. It prepared me for my collegiate basketball career. I developed as a basketball player and learned toughness and forthrightness. The bonds I was able to create with my teammates still stand to this day, and I'm grateful for Coach Ernst, Coach Desir, and Erika for pushing me to reach my potential as well as Mrs. E for taking care of us off the court."
-Sebastian Gahse, Division 1, Weber State '26
Meeting Jerry, and Steve my senior year of high school and getting the opportunity to play for Jerry Ernst all year was still to this day one of, if not the most influential year i experienced in my life. The lessons taught thru mental toughness, hard work and perseverance still reside with me today. The entire Ernst family in my opinion is a calibration of some of the very best basketball minds out there to be offered at any level. If your interested in finding out what your capable of achieving in the sport of basketball look Jerry, Steve and Erika Ernst up. They will help you smash goals that you never thought you’d be capable of achieving!
Chad Allen, Glen Oaks
#AimHigh
#WalterFrenchWolfpack
Coach I want to thank you for what you taught me this year and for everything you've done for me. What I learned from you I am sure I will remember for the rest of my life. Apart from how much I have improved in basketball I feel that I have also changed as a person in many areas and first of all my character! I wish always good health and good luck in your life to you and your family.
Sofoklis Kyriakou, Cyprus
CONTACT US
Aim High Academy
702-628-6885