Evolve EK Hoops: Nurturing Talent and Passion in Cranbrook, BC
At Evolve EK Hoops, our profound love for basketball is at the heart of everything we do. Located in Cranbrook, BC, our club is a testament to our commitment to this sport and our local community. Our club, led by individuals who have not only played but excelled in basketball in this city and beyond, offers a deep blend of experience and understanding of the game.
Our training philosophy emphasizes comprehensive growth, prioritizing the mastery of basketball fundamentals, cultivating a positive mindset, and keen attention to game details. This approach extends beyond mere technical skills, incorporating valuable life lessons and personal development into our program, ensuring a well-rounded and enriching experience for all players.
We believe in the power of inclusivity and strive to make Club Basketball accessible to everyone. Our ultimate aim at Evolve EK Hoops is to enhance each player’s abilities and deepen their understanding of the game, transcending age or background barriers. By doing so, we fulfill our most important mission: to spread the joy and valuable lessons of basketball throughout our community.
Our Coaches
At Evolve EK Hoops, our coaching team is the heart of everything we do. Each coach combines exceptional skill with a deep passion for the game, backed by decades of experience both on the court and on the sidelines at the professional level. More than just coaches, they are mentors who are committed to making a real difference—both in the lives of our players and in the wider community. Their dedication and knowledge play a key role in developing local talent and shaping the future of basketball in our region.
Shaun Penner:
Shaun is one of the founders of Evolve EK Hoops, and heads up our club teams. He was born and raised in Cranbrook, playing basketball for Mount Baker, graduating in 2009. Shaun went on to play collegiately for Lakeland College in the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) before returning to Cranbrook to begin his now decade-plus coaching career at the high school and youth level. Shaun believes strongly in developing athletes through hard work, discipline and attention to detail in a positive, uplifting environment.
Garold Gipman:
Another founder of Evolve, Garold brings plenty of playing and coaching experience to the organization. He, along with his wife Amanda, take the lead on organizing our Spring Break Camps and Spring Adult Tournament. Garold grew up in Cranbrook, playing basketball at Mount Baker before graduating in 2005. Keen to build capacity for the basketball community in his hometown, Garold brings his encouraging, uplifting approach to teaching the game of basketball to not only make players better, but to help them find the love of the game.
Alex Shaw:
Alex, also one of Evolve’s founders, is our head of facilities, ensuring we have the space needed to make all our programs happen. Growing up playing basketball in Cranbrook, Alex graduated from Mount Baker in 2000 before heading to Medicine Hat College to play in the ACAC while also representing Team Alberta at the 2001 Canada Games. Now coaching back in his hometown, Alex believes in the values of hard work and dedication.
Tyler Orcutt:
Tyler is a co-lead for Evolve’s Club Teams, and brings a lifetime of basketball experience to the organization. Tyler grew up in Fort McMurray, graduating in 2007 before attending and playing at Lakeland College for several years. Tyler has also coached at the ACAC level, having spent time coaching at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT). Tyler believes in perfecting the fundamentals of basketball at all levels to create the strongest players and teams.
Alexius Lehman:
Alexius is Evolve EK Hoops’ Lead Coach (aka Rock Star) for our Spring Break Camps, as well as our U13 Boys Club Team. Growing up playing basketball in Cranbrook, graduating from Mount Baker in 2016, she preaches the skills of toughness, resilience and tenacity in an encouraging and uplifting environment.