Our Story

From Overlooked to Leader — The Heart Behind MNASE

MNASE Basketball League was founded by Izell Scales in 2017 in Saint Paul, Minnesota, built from a passion rooted in perseverance, personal growth, and purpose. What began as a local vision has now become a growing movement to redefine how athletes experience basketball — not just in Minnesota, but across the country.

Izell’s love for the game started early. He played AAU basketball from 5th through 10th grade, quickly earning respect as a team captain — not because of height or athletic dominance, but because of leadership, effort, and heart. Standing at just 4 feet 11 inches, Izell was often underestimated. At age 14, he broke his right arm, but instead of quitting, he taught himself to shoot left-handed — a decision that would shape not only his game but his mindset.

When Izell entered high school at Johnson Senior High, he tried out for the school basketball team. Despite his leadership, experience, and skill, the coach cut him. The reason? “You’re just not tall enough.”

That moment of rejection could’ve ended his love for the game.
Instead, it lit a fire.

Coaching to Create Opportunity

At just 18 years old, Izell transitioned from player to coach. Determined to give others what he never received — a real chance — he started teaching fundamentals, building confidence, and developing complete players. He went on to coach for:

• Orono Youth Basketball Association

• Foley Basketball Association

• Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Centers

• His own competitive travel team: the MNASE Elite Mammoths

From Local Roots to a National Vision

MNASE began as the Minnesota Amateur Sports Empire, designed to serve the local community. But in 2024, it rebranded to reflect a much greater purpose:

Mentorship. Networking. Athletics. Support. Experience.

This name reflects what MNASE really delivers: not just sports programming, but a system of support that helps athletes thrive on and off the court.

MNASE now operates a complete basketball ecosystem, including:

• Secure the Crown – A structured adult basketball league

• Elite Mammoths – Competitive travel teams

• Second Chance Shots – Development for athletes cut from their school teams

• Lockdown 3on3 – Small-format league building IQ and pace

• Mentality Academy – Year-round camps, clinics, and workshops

Certifications & Credibility

Izell holds certifications in:

• Youth Sports Administration – National Alliance for Youth Sports

• Basketball Coaching – NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations)

• Basketball Officiating/Refereeing – NFHS

Why MNASE Matters

MNASE Basketball League exists to serve the overlooked, the underestimated, and the players who just need a fair chance. Izell’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and relentless belief — and it’s the same belief he now passes on to every athlete that walks into a MNASE gym.

He knows what it feels like to be told you're not enough.
He knows what it takes to prove otherwise.
And that’s why MNASE is different.

"I built this league for the players who have something to prove — and for those who never gave up. My story shaped MNASE. Now MNASE is here to help others write theirs."
– Izell Scales, Founder & Director