Forging Unbreakable Bonds: The Military Basketball Association's Mission to Support Servicemembers

In the vast expanse of military life, where duty calls members to far-flung corners of the globe, the bonds forged between comrades become a lifeline. The Military Basketball Association (MBA), a trailblazing organization founded in 2017, is harnessing the power of the sport to create an even tighter-knit community, one that not only fosters camaraderie but also addresses the invisible wounds of military service.

Uniting Servicemembers Through the Shared Passion for Hoops

The Military Basketball Association, brainchild of Retired Army Major Mike Meyers, started as a humble tournament at Fountain Ft. Carson. But in the span of just seven years, it has blossomed into a global league, boasting over 1,000 players – both active duty and veterans, men and women – across four conferences.

Building a Family on the Court

For many servicemembers, the separation from loved ones can be an isolating experience. But the MBA has become a sanctuary, a place where camaraderie and a sense of family thrive. "If you're part of a team, you're part of a family," Meyers explains. "We've seen the camaraderie, the 'no veteran gets left behind' mentality, take root within the league."The power of team sports lies in their ability to forge unbreakable bonds. On the basketball court, servicemembers find a shared purpose, a common language, and a support system that extends far beyond the game itself. This sense of belonging is particularly crucial for those struggling with the invisible wounds of military service.

Addressing the Invisible Wounds of Military Life

The MBA's mission extends beyond the court, as the organization seeks to raise awareness and intervene with members who might be grappling with suicidal thoughts or other harmful behaviors. "There's been a rise in suicides and harmful behaviors," Meyers acknowledges, "and so, we started the MBA so that basketball could serve as an outlet."By providing a tight-knit community and a shared passion, the MBA aims to address the isolation and mental health challenges that can plague servicemembers. The camaraderie fostered on the court can be a lifeline for those in need, offering a sense of purpose, belonging, and support during the darkest of times.

Expanding the Reach of the MBA

The MBA's impact is not limited to a single region or base. With teams established at Peterson Space Force Base and Buckley Space Force Base in Colorado, the league's reach is steadily growing. And the organization is actively seeking to expand its footprint, with ongoing tryouts and a dedicated team of operations professionals ready to connect with servicemembers across the globe.For those stationed or living in Colorado, the opportunity to join the MBA is just a phone call away. Interested individuals can contact Rob Shaw at 303-526-6398 to learn more about the tryout process. For those in other areas or with general inquiries, the MBA's President of Operations, Albert Mayon, can be reached at basketballoperations@mymba-global.com.As the Military Basketball Association continues to evolve and expand, its impact on the lives of servicemembers is undeniable. By harnessing the power of basketball, the organization is forging unbreakable bonds, providing a much-needed outlet for those facing the unique challenges of military life, and ensuring that no veteran is ever left behind.