In 2019, founder Jeremy Wilner and Pat Dame had a vision to fill a void in Rhode Island basketball. A vision centered on development, exposure and college placement at all levels. In the fall of 2019, Basketball Club Rhode Island was born and quickly established itself as one of the most respected AAU and grassroots basketball programs in New England.
Shortly after BCRI's inception, Kyle VanRossum joined the program, bringing with him his own talented teams, players and coaches along with a shared vision for growth. His addition helped transform what began as a single team of sophomores and juniors into a rapidly expanding program with a clear identity and culture. Competing against top competition, those early teams set the tone for what BCRI would become.
With over 75 student-athletes committed to playing college basketball in BCRI's first six years, BCRI has seen its vision come to life. Providing an outlet where Rhode Island athletes, and now expanding to Massachusetts and Connecticut, could flourish, compete, and prove the level of talent the area has to offer. What started as a vision to represent Rhode Island basketball has evolved into a movement, one built on opportunity, hard work and dedication to the families and athletes that trust in BCRI.
Today, BCRI plays a pivotal role in the Rhode Island basketball community, serving as the state’s only outlet for player development and college exposure. The program supports more than 500 boys and girls from 3rd through 12th grade, providing pathways for growth both on and off the court. Our athletes and their families align with, and help strengthen BCRI’s culture and vision, embodying the values that define Basketball Club Rhode Island.