BYU Students Ty Bush & Danny Magallanes Launch National Dunk Ball League: A Journey of Innovation and Perseverance
The Beginnings
In March 2023, Ty Bush, a student at Brigham Young University (BYU), had an idea that would change the landscape of basketball leagues. Inspired by the desire to make basketball more inclusive and exciting, he envisioned a league where players could experience the thrill of dunking on 8.5-foot hoops, lower than the standard 10 feet. Little did he know, this idea would lead to the creation of the DB Jam League and a journey filled with challenges, growth, and nationwide recognition.
The Journey
Initially, the road to launching the DB Jam League was anything but smooth. Despite the abundance of basketball intramural teams between UVU and BYU, Ty encountered difficulty in finding support for his vision. His first attempt at starting a league for 8.5-foot hoops saw no sign-ups, leaving him disheartened but undeterred.
Undeterred by the initial setback, Ty and his friend Danny Magallanes, decided to take matters into their own hands. They hosted open gyms at a local court, leveraging their connections to spread the word and attract players. With perseverance and determination, they gradually gained momentum, hosting six tournaments in the next four months and garnering attention from media outlets nationwide.
As their brand began to grow, fueled by engaging video content and grassroots marketing efforts, Ty and Danny found themselves at the forefront of a burgeoning community. Their innovative approach to basketball caught the attention of people from all over the country, propelling them into the spotlight and laying the foundation for their ambitious plans.
The Tour
Fast forward to April 2024, and the DB Jam League is preparing to embark on a nationwide tour, spanning 20 cities in the United States over 25 days. This summer, Ty, Danny, and their team are set to bring the excitement of Dunk Ball to communities across the country, fostering connections, and expanding their vibrant community.
Challenges and Success
Reflecting on the challenges they’ve faced along the way, Ty acknowledges the obstacles encountered, from the initial struggle to find a gym to the ongoing effort to secure sponsorships for their tour. As a business owner, he’s learned to adapt and wear many hats, filling various roles within the company and embracing the journey of learning as he goes.
For Ty and Danny, success is not just about achieving their goals but also about inspiring others to chase their dreams. Their vision for the DB Jam League goes beyond basketball; it’s about creating something meaningful, making a positive impact, and empowering others to believe in the power of their dreams.
Join the Movement
As they prepare to embark on their tour, Ty and Danny invite basketball enthusiasts and dreamers alike to join them on the journey. Whether it’s through participating in tournaments, following their story on social media, or simply sharing their passion for Dunk Ball, there’s a place for everyone in the DB Jam League family.
Ty and Danny are actively seeking sponsorships to support their nationwide tour and cover expenses related to equipment, travel, and venue costs. Businesses and organizations interested in supporting this innovative sports initiative can find more information on their website at www.dbjamleague.com and follow them on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok at @dbjamleague. You can also get ahold of them at tyler@dbjamleague.com.