Matt Barnett
For Matt Barnett, co-founder of The Basketball Social House, basketball isn’t just a game; it’s a way of life. Matt’s love for the game has influenced every aspect of his life, starting with his early days at Douglas County High School, where he earned three letters in basketball and two in baseball. While in high school, he was guided by the strong coaching leadership of his father, Steve Barnett, which resulted in his receiving the honor of All-State Basketball Player of the Year twice.
Making Basketball a Career
Matt’s passion for basketball led him to play at Colorado State University after receiving multiple offers from many Division I schools. At Colorado State, he became a four-year starter and worked his way into the record books as third all-time in rebounds and fourth in assists. After earning his BA in Liberal Arts, Matt took up professional ball in New Zealand, where he averaged twenty points and ten rebounds per game.
Upon returning to Colorado, Matt served as the Recreation Coordinator for the City of Greenwood Village and started his own training business, Hoops4You, training professional, college, and youth basketball players. In 2012, he founded Elevation Flyers, one of the longest-standing youth basketball clubs in Colorado; the club has competed on a local and national level. From 2016-2020, Barnett was the Director of Basketball for the Panorama Sports Institute under the direction of former NBA strength and conditioning coach Steve Hess and NBA finals MVP Chauncey Billups.
Basketball Coaching Philosophy
Matt’s coaching philosophy has always centered on teaching the fundamentals of the game while also fostering a love for basketball. He uses positive feedback to help players improve their skills and achieve their goals.
He also recognizes the importance of challenging athletes both physically and mentally, guiding them to reach beyond their limits, and helping them reach their full potential. Every practice, game, and training session is infused with an atmosphere of enthusiasm, dedication, and hard work. With these principles in mind, Matt equips players to become well-rounded athletes who are not only skilled in basketball but are also ready to succeed both on and off the court.
Bringing Community Basketball to
Centennial, Colorado
Matt often found a well-rounded coaching approach lacking in many of the gyms and tournaments he frequented as a coach. His vision to create a positive atmosphere for all ages who love the sport of basketball began to take shape as he shared his vision for an inclusive basketball experience with long-time friend, Jimmy Bemis.
The two men united on the shared vision of a community gathering place that would support positive growth for anyone interested in the sport of basketball. Thus, The Basketball Social House was born. Matt can be found organizing tournaments and leagues under B-Ball games, the basketball arm of The Basketball Social House, or possibly throwing up a few shots in the gym. He is excited to share his love for the game with a wider audience, and this new “eatertainment” concept allows him to do just that.
