Coach Salley grew up competing with her brothers in a variety of sports - one including football. She eventually grew a love for basketball which commanded most of her focus and landed herself a full-ride D1 scholarship to the U of M. Upon graduation with a successful college career to look back on, Bre took her shot at the WNBA but ultimately took her talents oversees for four seasons. When she felt it was time to pivot her career - there was no question that basketball would be a part of her future.
She landed back here in MN and teamed up with the MN Lynx & Timberwolves program where she now serves as the Senior Basketball Academy Coordinator. Now, she's also on board the Dr. Dish team!
Bre is someone who has had some incredible career highlights, she knows what it feels like to have hard work finally pay off. However, she also knows what it feels like to fail. Failure "makes you question who you are and what your true worth is."
Basketball for Bre and to the players she coaches is more than just a game. It plays a key role in defining who they are, their morals, standards and work ethic. Which is part of why Coach Salley continues to stay involved.
When speaking with Bre one of our biggest takeaways was the advice she provided for coaches, parents, and players. Which was to never limit yourself, your players, or your children. For coaches and parents specifically:
Allow kids to experiment in all types of activities. Do not put them in a box. Support them, encourage them and give them the confidence to explore their passions.
Secondly, when it comes to women's basketball specifically, Coach Salley challenges us all to advocate for normalcy and level the playing field for kids of all ages and genders. Never settle and to continue to support each other by stepping up and being good role models in your communities.
Coach Salley was recently highlighted in our Women's Initiative Campaign - Rise to the Top! Check it out: