BamBam's rise to the top of professional basketball ownership did not come without its challenges. As a boy growing up in Anchorage, Alaska, his dreams of owning a team never wavered, not even after his first failed venture with the Anchorage Phantoms. The Phantoms, despite their impressive start in BuzzerBeater USA Division V, oscillated between Division IV and V, until eventually, BamBam had to declare bankruptcy due to low attendance and lack of success.
However, this failure only fueled his ambition and redirected his attention to his business, which in turn elevated his financial security. As fate would have it, another opportunity presented itself when the Kansas City partnership failed to progress. Seizing this opportunity, BamBam purchased the Kansas City Regulators, a team already in Division IV, and implemented a change in strategy.
Abandoning his previous approach of loading the team with veteran talents, BamBam focused on building solid infrastructure including arena seats, merchandise, radio/tv, training facilities, and high-end gyms, and using the draft to acquire young, promising talent. This new philosophy paid off as the Regulators won two Division IV championships and secured three MVPs, while also gaining promotion to Division III twice.
BamBam's organization built an exceptional infrastructure that attracted a more consistent fan base, boosted season ticket sales, and increased merchandise sales. The state-of-the-art headquarters, practice facilities, and gym became instrumental in improving the team's talent and performance. Moreover, the team's reach expanded internationally due to having six players on U21 National Teams.
Recognizing the importance of media and branding, BamBam purchased a maximum multimedia network, creating a frenzy around the team that increased merchandise sales even in other countries. The increase in revenue allowed for a higher investment in team gear, attire, and merchandise, leading to the creation of the maxed Merchandise Store.
His bold decisions paid off, leading to the drafting of three Hall of Famers and six MVPs. However, the saga didn't end there. When Kansas City failed to pass a bill to share in the cost of a premium arena, BamBam made a daring move. He relocated his team to Hastings, Pennsylvania, where the city agreed to invest $4 million in a new arena.
Today, as the Hastings Hornets prepare for their inaugural game at their new arena against the Apex Predators, BamBam's vision seems to have come full circle. Despite his early failures, he never lost sight of his dream, and with an unwavering mindset and strategic planning, BamBam managed to make his mark in professional basketball. The motto of the Hornets - 'Stir the Nest, Feel the Sting' - could very well be BamBam's own personal mantra, reflecting his relentless pursuit of success in BuzzerBeater.