Welcome To Our Story

Welcome to Pura Vida Basketball, where we're dedicated to empowering youth both on and off the court. Our camps and clinics provide immersive experiences that go beyond traditional basketball training. From dynamic day camps to enriching overnight retreats, we offer a variety of programs tailored to suit every young athlete's needs.

At Pura Vida Basketball, we believe in nurturing the whole athlete. In addition to honing basketball skills, our curriculum encompasses essential life lessons such as nutrition, personal growth, and sports psychology. Through engaging activities, interactive workshops, and hands-on training, we instill confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset in every participant.

Join us at Pura Vida Basketball and embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and endless possibilities both on and off the court.

  • Scott Wheler

    Owner Operator

    Coach Wheler has coached basketball for over 20 years in numerous capacities and at a variety of schools. As a result, of his many years of experience in coaching both girls and boys teams of all abilities, he knows what it takes to develop the skills necessary to improve each player’s individual skill sets. This coupled with his personal love of the game, propels him to bring out the best in every athlete.

    ● Coaching Experience:

    N.T.B.A. Huskies - House league Head Coach

    Crescent School - Head Coach Jr. Team

    Crescent School - Assistant Coach Sr. Team

    Havergal College - Head Coach Jr. School

    Havergal College - Head Coach Upper School

    N.T.B.A. Mini Huskies Program - Director

    John Wanless Public School boys team - Volunteer

    Nike Basketball Camps Toronto - Director

    Four Point Basketball - Regional Director, Toronto

    Pura Vida Basketball – Owner/Operator

    ● Basketball Experience:

    John Wanless P.S. (City Champions)

    Glenview S.P. (City Finalist)

    N.T.B.A. Rep Team (Provincial Champions)

    Wild Hawks (AAU)

    Northern S.S. (City Champions) and (Toronto All-Star Selection)

    Seneca College (OCAA All-Star Selection)

    Ryerson University Men's Varsity Team

  • Evan Shadkami

    Camp Director

    2023-24: Was the biggest offensive force for the Lions in his one and only season in red & white… Appeared in and and started all 22 regular season games and York’s playoff game… Led the team in points (475) and points per game (21.6)... His points per game average was third in the province and seventh in the country… He scored 30+ points five times, including a career-high 40 on Nov. 25 against his former team, the Toronto Varsity Blues… Was named York male athlete of the week twice, for the periods ending Nov. 26 and Feb. 11… Was also named U SPORTS men’s basketball athlete of the week for the period ending Feb. 11 after scoring a combined 65 points on 22-of-40 shooting (10-of-16 from three-point range) in wins over Guelph and Laurier… Was named an OUA second team all-star… Was a York male athlete of the year nominee… Earned a Lions Legacy award as an outstanding graduate nominee… named team co-MVP.

    U SPORTS: Played four seasons for the Toronto Varsity Blues from 2017-2022… Was named to the U SPORTS all-rookie team in 2018.

    Empowering the Next Generation: Beyond my own illustrious career, I am deeply committed to giving back to the sport that has given me so much. As a coach and mentor, I have had the privilege of working with aspiring young athletes at various basketball camps, imparting not only essential on-court skills but also invaluable life lessons. Most notably, I had the honor of lending my expertise to the Raptors 905 Camp during the 2024 March Break, where I inspired and empowered the next generation of basketball superstars to chase their dreams with unwavering passion and determination.

  • AALIYAH ALEXANDER

    Camp Director

    Coach Aaliyah has been coaching for the past 7 years. She is an enthusiastic coach passionate about the game and always looking for creative ways to improve both her coaching and playing skills.

    "I love to work with young athletes at basketball camps because not only does it help me improve my skills but also I love helping the kids learn, improve and master their own game. Watching them have fun, grow and fall in love with the sport makes me want to keep teaching and spreading the love for the great game of basketball" - Coach Aaliyah.

    Coaching Experience:

    Nike Basketball Camps Toronto - Head Coach

    NTBA Mini Huskies Program - Coach

    Havergal College - Head Coach Jr. School

    Basketball experience:

    Toronto Triple Threat Rep Team(Provincial champions) and (All-Star)

    Redmond Prep Academy (Prep Team)

    Loyalist College (OCAA All-star) and (Team MVP)

  • Chris Webber

    Head Coach

    Growing up in a sports-oriented family, Chris Webber developed a love for basketball at an early age. Former U Sports Rookie of the Year at Carlton University, a first-team All-Star, All-Canadian, and a former Canadian National team player.  He enjoyed a decade long career as a European Pro and is excited to bring his skills and passion for the game to the next generation of aspiring young players

    Basketball Experience

    OUAA ROY

    OUAA 1st Team All Star

    All Canadian CIS

    98’ Canadian National Team member

    9 Season European Professional Career

     2 Time 3x3 FIBA Canadian representative 

    Level I & II National Coaching Certification