ABOUT RISING BALLER ACADEMY

Rising Baller Academy was founded in September 2023 by ex-WNBA player Andrea Congreaves and business partner Linda van Bakkum.

The goal is to introduce as many children as possible to basketball by providing clinics, workshops and individual advanced specialization training. 

Andrea has a wealth of experience as a former player and coach. Started playing basketball as a 15-year-old through a clinic given at her school. After playing in her native England for a few years, she left for the great American adventure, playing and studying at Division 1 school Mercer University, Macon Georgia. Her senior year in college she was named a Division 1 All American after which her professional career began. In 15 years of professional basketball, Andrea's highlight is playing in the WNBA with the Charlotte Sting and the Orlando Miracle. Also played in many countries including 6 years in Spain (including FC Barcelona), 6 years in Italy, France and South Korea. Andrea has played from youth selection for English and Great Britain national team. 

After her playing career Andrea wanted to share and transfer knowledge and experience and started coaching. 

Playing experience:

1985-1987 Crystal Palace, London, England

1987-1988 Brixton, London, England

1988-1989 London YMCA, London, England

1989-1993 Mercer University, Macon, Georgia, USA

1993-1994 Viterbo, Italy

1994-1995 Valencia. Spain

1995-1998 Como, Ita