Elyson Community · Katy, Texas
Building champions from the ground up. Elite training, team culture, and a love for the game — right here in Elyson.
Our Mission
SANKA Basketball Academy was founded with one vision: to give every young athlete in the Elyson community access to elite basketball development in a safe, encouraging, and competitive environment.
From beginners finding their footing to advanced players chasing competitive leagues, we meet every player where they are and push them to grow — on and off the court.
What We Offer
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6–8
Little Ballers
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9–12
Youth Elite
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13–17
Prep Academy
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| First steps on the court. Fun, games, and foundational skills for the youngest athletes. | Core development years. Technique, teamwork, and competitive readiness. | Serious development for players with competitive goals and high school ambitions. Position-specific training & film study sessions. |
The Staff
Our Story
Founded by Nicole (Jamen) Tafen and Serge Tafen, SANKA Basketball Skills Academy was created with a simple vision: to connect their children—who are deeply involved in sports—with the local community through training, mentorship, and shared growth.
What began as a passion project has grown into a structured program that supports young athletes in basketball, soccer, agility, and overall conditioning, while fostering confidence, discipline, and a love for the game.
Nicole Jamen is a former international professional basketball player with elite playing experience across the United States and abroad.
A graduate of Austin Peay State University, Nicole was a key leader in guiding the Governors to two consecutive Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) Championships and NCAA March Madness appearances. As the team's leading rebounder, she demonstrated tenacity, discipline, and a consistent impact on both ends of the court.
Nicole has also represented Cameroon in international competition, participating in Olympic qualifying tournaments and most recently competing at AfroBasket 2015.
She has trained and competed in Portugal, France, Italy, Mozambique, Cameroon, and Madagascar, among others — experiences that have shaped her dynamic approach to the game and her ability to connect with athletes from diverse backgrounds.
In addition to her athletic career, Nicole brings a strong professional background in leadership and project management, ensuring that every aspect of the academy experience is delivered with organization, intention, and excellence.
Serge Tafen is deeply passionate about youth development, with a strong commitment to serving the community and providing consistent mentorship and support to young athletes and their families.
With a professional background in programming, he brings structure, organization, and a systems-driven approach to the overall sports program.
Our Mission
At SANKA, the mission is clear: to deliver high-quality training that empowers young athletes to grow, compete, and thrive — both on the court and in life.
Legal & Consent
Please read the full waiver carefully. By signing, the parent or legal guardian acknowledges all terms and gives consent for their child to participate in SANKA Basketball Skills Academy training sessions, camps, and activities.
I understand that participation in basketball training and athletic activities involves inherent risks, including but not limited to falls, collisions, physical exertion, and other potential injuries. I voluntarily allow my child to participate and accept all risks associated with participation. I understand that minor injuries such as sprains, bruises, and muscle soreness are common in athletic activities.
I, on behalf of myself and the participant, hereby release, waive, and discharge SANKA Basketball Skills Academy, its owners, coaches, staff, volunteers, affiliates, partners, and facility providers from any and all liability, claims, demands, damages, or causes of action that may arise from injury, illness, or damages occurring before, during, or after any training session, camp, or event.
I confirm that my child is physically able to participate in athletic activities. I understand that SANKA Basketball Skills Academy does not provide medical insurance and I am responsible for any medical expenses that may arise from participation.
I grant permission for SANKA Basketball Skills Academy and its affiliates to take photographs and video recordings of the participant during training sessions, camps, and related activities. I authorize the use of these images or videos for promotional and media purposes, including but not limited to flyers, websites, social media, advertisements, and marketing materials, without compensation.
By agreeing to this waiver, I acknowledge that I will not pursue legal action or hold SANKA Basketball Skills Academy or its affiliates responsible for any injuries, damages, or losses that may occur as a result of participation.
By signing or submitting this form, I confirm that I am the parent or legal guardian of the participant and that I have read, understood, and voluntarily agree to this waiver and release of liability.
In the event of an injury or medical emergency, I authorize SANKA Basketball Skills Academy, its staff, and representatives to obtain emergency medical treatment for my child if I cannot be reached. I understand that I am responsible for any costs associated with such treatment.
I understand that all participants and parents/guardians are expected to demonstrate respectful behavior toward coaches, staff, and other participants. SANKA Basketball Skills Academy reserves the right to remove any participant from a session or program without refund if behavior is deemed unsafe, disruptive, or inappropriate.
I agree to indemnify and hold harmless SANKA Basketball Skills Academy, its staff, and affiliates from any claims, damages, or expenses (including legal fees) arising from my child's participation.
I understand that sessions may be rescheduled or canceled due to weather, facility issues, or unforeseen circumstances. Refunds are not guaranteed and may be handled at the discretion of SANKA Basketball Skills Academy.
Complete all fields below and sign to confirm your agreement.
Community Voices
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