About us
Ball Academy is Europe’s 1st International Athletic Prep School & University, dedicated entirely to give girls and boys ages 16 to 23 the opportunity to train like elite athletes while continuing their education.
Located in Geneva and the Lavaux/Riviera region of Switzerland, just minutes from FIBA headquarters, we combine the American student-athlete experience with the international reach of Europe. Our goal is simple: to give every athlete a chance to pursue their dreams.
Our Mission
We prepare motivated young athletes not only for basketball, but for life. We provide them with the structure, coaching, and academic pathways to grow into disciplined, resilient individuals who can compete on the court and succeed beyond it.
Our Belief
Every athlete deserves a chance to pursue their dreams.
Our Promise
We are fully committed to your progress on the court, in the classroom and in life.
Our Guarantee
Every student-athlete at Ball Academy will be given the tools and exposure needed to pursue collegiate or professional opportunities in the US, Europe or anywhere else in the world.
“Taking care of the youth means taking care of our future.”
– Antoine Gillespie, International Youth Skills Trainer
Our Philosophy
Ball Academy Prep School& University is built on three pillars:
- Athletic Excellence – Training, competition, and player development at the highest level
- Academic Achievement – Education adapted to student-athletes’ needs and future ambitions
- Character & Leadership – Building discipline, resilience and confidence for life
We train with intensity. We compete at the highest level. But we also take the time to learn, reflect, and grow as individuals. We are there to support their journey, lead them on their own path and share our experience and network. Immersing in our beautiful and safe environment is also a big part of the experience.
Meet →
Our International Youth Skills Trainer, a Chicago native, Antoine Gillespie’s basketball journey took him from high school stardom to the University of Texas El Paso, the NBA, and a 17-year professional career across 23 countries. A Chicago Basketball Hall of Fame inductee and all-time leading scorer at UTEP, Antoine combines elite playing experience with a passion for youth development.
His vision for Ball Academy is clear: to create a place where athletes can reach their highest potential while building the resilience, discipline, and leadership that will serve them throughout life.
Our Partners
We partner with national basketball federations and basketball clubs in Switzerland to develop their players and to offer them opportunities to showcase their talent in national and international competitions.
For academics we partner with language schools, boarding schools and international universities to provide outstanding learning opportunities for our student athletes. We work hand in hand with our partners so that our students can have schedules that fit their athletic programs.
We are actively seeking new partners like clubs, schools, and organizations or sponsors to grow our Academy and give more young athletes the chance to shine.
Let's talk