Factory Basketballʼs Boys coach Kenny Mullins is taking one last ride. The long time leader of the program recently announced in a statement to Media and the region, this would be his last year he would be coaching club full-time at the High School club level.
“Thank you so much to the many people that have helped me do this” Mullins said. “Its been a great run. Its been fun and exciting, and a huge blessing to get to be connected to so many kids and families over the years - I couldnʼt have dreamed of doing it this long.”
Mullins will wrap up his 20th season later this summer.
“It was a decision I have been thinking about for awhile. The landscape in the last few years has changed so dramatically, as well as my personal life, that now is a good time for me to move on and pursue new things.”
Mullins became emotional when talking about his family and friend's support.
“So many people helped me get started - gave me the opportunity to coach, and do what I really loved to do. Thank you to Kevin Small, for lighting the flame and asking me to come to his sonʼs practice in 2003. Thank you to Marcus Matthews, for connecting me to the Arizona Magic and helping me coach my first couple years, Thank you to Anthony Ray, who allowed me to coach his juggernaut program and be injected into high-major recruiting. Thank You to Gino Crump, for assisting me for (10) years, and being a loyal and true friend. Thank you to Jamaal Edwards, for assisting me with coaching and developing kids. Thank you to Dinos Trigonis and Leslie, for helping me get kids recruited thru his events, and the partnership we had. Thank you to so many high school coaches who have helped me with kids and gyms over the many years! Too many to list. and last, Thank you to Helen Novak, for being the most supportive best friend and partner I could ever ask for.
Mullins will conclude his career as the stateʼs all-time winningest AAU/club coach, as he led his team to many national event wins vs top ranked opponents, as well as tournament championships over the years in such prestigious events as: The Great American Shootout, Reebok Big Time, Fab 48, Kingwood Classic, Adidas Three Stripes, and many more. Since 2007, he amassed over 700 Wins at the 17/16u age level - never having a losing season, ever.
“Factory has been my life. I donʼt know anything else.” He said.
Mullins started his coaching career in 2003 with the Arizona Stars youth program, before taking over the head coaching duties with the Arizona Magic program for nine years, then starting the club Factory in 2016. In (15) years coaching/training elite-level high school prospects, Mullins has helped 100+ young men develop, and earn a scholarship to play college basketball, including over 50 at the Division-I level. Mullins also has a coaching tree, including multiple college coaches, as well as 10+ professionals playing around the world.
“I wasnʼt looking to ever bounce around. Once I got into that scene, I planted my flag and made my own brand, doing the best I could, and what was best for the kids.” Mullins said. “We had everything we needed to compete at the highest level, and we did.”
Mullins said his future plans are to mentor two of his former players to take over his program. He will start a shooting school to teach kids the proper skills to shoot a basketball, as well as look to help Coach at the college or professional level.
