What we do

For the 2025/26 training year, ABI will recruit 24 3rd, 20 4th and 12 5th graders. The young student athletes will be developed through training and competition for 12 months. As the classes are promoted academically, a new 3rd class is recruited. The previous and new student athletes continue their training with ABI in preparation for middle school basketball..

Our Methododolgy

We have developed a four year curriculum based on internationally accepted Long Term Athlete Development strategies; and incorporating FIBA and USA Basketball guidelines. Our desire is to develop a player and then watch the player create their individual style of play. We continue to refine skills and enhance knowledge for as long as our student athletes play organized basketball for a school, college or university.

Our Goal

Our goal is to improve basketball in Baldwin and Mobile counties through player development. We believe a player 's individual success is tied to his school team. Player accolades and local high school state championships are our strategic goals. ABI will change the basketball landscape on our section of the Gulf Coast, one player at a time.

Our Mission

Alabama Basketball Institute's mission is developing selfless, position-less, skilled players by combining American skills and European techniques.

Utilizing the structure, discipline, dedication, and teamwork required to be successful in basketball, we create leaders.

Founder and Director of Basketball Training

Paul Houlsen

Paul is possibly the only American basketball coach who has won three consecutive National Championships and Coach of the Year awards in a foreign professional basketball league. From 2010 to 2020, he coached 1st and 2nd professional division teams in the Liberian Basketball Association (LBA), Liberia, West Africa. Compiling a record of 171-41, in FIBA sanctioned competitions, against teams from Ghana, Nigeria, Gabon, Tunisia, Algeria, Libya, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Guinea and the United States. In addition to coaching, Paul conducted basketball camps in Africa and Europe.

In 2020, Paul returned to Baldwin County and obtained coaching certifications from the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) and the National Federation of State High School Association (NFHS). He became the 5th and 6th grade Youth Development Coach, Middle School Girls Head Coach and Assistant Varsity Girls coach at Bayside Academy. Followed by a season as the Cottage Hill Middle School boys Head Coach and the Head Coach of Spanish Forts JV Boys Summer league team.

Noticing the skill level difference between European and American middle school players, in 2022 Paul founded the Alabama Basketball Institute (ABI) to close the gap. He was greatly influenced by Dr. Rosandich, the United States Sports University founder. Paul has worked with middle and elementary school players from 12 Baldwin County Schools.