Tom Abernethy had a
dream! Why continue to work a job that didn't fully use his gifts of
basketball, love for kids, and making an impact on those in the
community? Tom left a lucrative job in commercial real estate and built
the IBA in 1996 so he could pass on everything he learned throughout his
life to kids. Many people and circumstances helped shape him into the
Coach he is today. These include: losing his father and brother as a
child, having success as a basketball player at IU and in the NBA, being
coached by Bobby Knight, and being unsatisfied with fame and money.
Tom's heart is seen in the way every child is encouraged, respected, and
nurtured when they participate in any IBA program.