DENG KUANY

DK is the Founder of Pro Hoops Development and brings a wealth of experience as both a player and coach. His playing career includes time in the NCAA, representing the South Sudanese National Team, and competing in NBL1. Along the way, he became a Youth League Champion (2014), U18 National Classic Champion (2013), and a four-time SSNBA Champion.

With over a decade of coaching and player development experience, DK has established himself as a leading figure in skill development across all levels of the game. He has successfully run skills classes and camps that have guided athletes from grassroots basketball through to NCAA Division I and NBL prospects.

DK’s combination of high-level playing experience and proven coaching success allows him to identify and nurture talent, helping athletes unlock their potential and take their game to the next level.

GEORGE TOAISHARA

George has been immersed in basketball his entire life, progressing through the VJBL ranks before taking his game to the United States to compete at the JUCO level in Colorado. Upon returning to Australia, he continued his playing career with stints in Youth League, UBL, and Big V, experiences that shaped his understanding of the game from multiple perspectives.

Transitioning into coaching, George has become a respected figure across the Victorian basketball community. He is the Founder of TrenchWork Hoops, and currently serves as Head Coach at Westbourne Grammar, Skills Trainer with TrenchWork Hoops, Head Coach for Helping Hoops Footscray, and U20s Head Coach for the Kyneton Tigers.

George brings a wealth of coaching experience across all levels, from grassroots to elite development, and is recognised for his attention to detail, passion for teaching, and commitment to player growth both on and off the court.

EMMANUEL MALOU

Emmanuel brings a wealth of experience to Run It Back Academy, having spent over eight years competing at the professional international level. His career has taken him across the globe, including time in the NBL and representing the South Sudanese National Team.

A standout from the beginning, Emmanuel was a JUCO All-American and a 2016 NBA Draft Prospect, achievements that reflect his talent and dedication to the game. Most recently, he became a two-time NBL1 Champion with Mackay, further cementing his reputation as a leader on and off the court.

Beyond his playing career, Emmanuel is passionate about developing the next generation of athletes. During his off-seasons, he invests his time into coaching, mentoring, and passing on the knowledge and skills that have shaped his own journey. His unique blend of professional playing experience, international competition, and coaching insight makes him an invaluable part of the Academy.

LUKE AXIAK

Luke brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Run It Back Academy, with a strong background in Exercise and Sport Science and hands-on work across multiple high-performance environments.

He has gained valuable experience at elite clubs including North Melbourne Football Club (NMFC), Western United FC, and CWFC VFL. He currently as a Strength & Conditioning Coach with a high-performance swimming club, where he supports Olympians and Paralympians in their pursuit of excellence.

Alongside his coaching, Luke is completing his Master of Physiotherapy at Swinburne University, with a long-term goal of supporting an entire athletes journey, be it through recovery, rehabilitation or peak performance. 

As an athlete himself, having played Big V basketball, he understands the demands of high-level sport and is passionate about helping athletes not only perform better in their chosen field but also develop strength, resilience, and confidence that transfers to life outside of sport.