CO-FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Nels is a prominent figure in the basketball community, having traveled to over 95 countries to build a global basketball network. Widely recognized for his contributions to both U.S. and international hoops, he was on the ground floor of advancing women’s basketball and has been a visionary force ever since. Energetic, perseverant, and a trusted mentor to coaches worldwide, Nels is also a problem solver who “has been in more hotel rooms than the Gideon Bible.” He lives in Shoreline with his wife and colleague, Nancy, and their pup, Kobe—the true mascot of BTI.

PRESIDENT & MANAGING PARTNER

Kreston is a visionary with a gift for big ideas, new possibilities, and assembling the right team to make them happen. After 20 years of volunteering with Basketball Travelers, 18 years in ministry, and more than a decade in global business development, he brought that experience into his role as President and started calling a few plays himself. Strategic, relational, and endlessly adaptable, Kreston learns quickly and loves turning “what ifs?” into “why not?” But no title tops Pops—grandpa first, husband and dad always, and frequent flyer somewhere after that.

DIRECTOR OF INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS & EVENTS

For over 25 years, Jenn has been the Swiss Army knife of Basketball Travelers—an MVP at turning ambitious visions into slam-dunk realities. As a Creator & Director of Paradise Jam and a mastermind of international tours, she runs point with passion, perseverance, and a people-first heart. Tireless and loyal, Jenn never forgets a face or a detail—her memory is basically a full-court press. From Italy to the Caribbean, she makes big dreams happen. Though rooted in Shoreline, her heart will always play home games in the US Virgin Islands.

DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC ADVANCEMENT

Carlyn is the organizational glue that keeps Basketball Travelers from unraveling at the seams. A bilingual project manager, graphic designer, problem solver, and self-proclaimed detail freak, she’s worn just about every hat at BTI before officially joining the team full-time in 2023. With 43 countries stamped in her passport, she’s basically our global traffic controller, keeping projects, people, tours, and details moving whether they like it or not. Off the clock, you’ll find her traveling, organizing homes, or chasing her toddler—proof that her time-tested efficiency comes in handy while managing BTI logistics on less sleep than an overnight layover in Istanbul.

STRATEGIC ADVISOR

David is the “bulldog” of operations and logistics and a fan-favorite ambassador, wrangling event organizers and participants, schedules, and the occasional travel and event curveballs with almost 30 years of NCAA-national office wisdom. Tireless and humble, he solves problems before anyone knows they exist—usually while smiling. Often traveling with his amazing wife who is also a master of event and group coordination, he delivers smooth, top-tier experiences for teams and fans alike and never considers any task too small. David loves people, travel, international exchanges and making things better for everyone around him. For him, this role isn’t work—it’s the dream job he’s been training for.

EXECUTIVE PROGRAM COORDINATOR

Emily grew up in Bangkok, so travel has been in her DNA longer than most of us have owned a suitcase. She’s explored 30+ countries and spent six years in Division I Women’s Basketball, running team logistics with the precision of a point guard. Cool under pressure, wise beyond her years, and quietly funny, Emily is the ultimate teammate—attentive, servant-hearted, and always ready to make the assist so every trip ends in a win and, ideally, with everyone’s luggage.

DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE SERVICES

Nancy is the behind-the-scenes magician of travel and branding, equal parts perfectionist and caretaker. Dedicated and thoughtful, she wrangles vendors, obsesses over brand cohesion, and spots the details others miss. Known for her servant heart and inclusive spirit, she makes sure athletes, fans, and boosters feel cared for every step of the way. Humble but unstoppable, Nancy doesn’t settle—and with her husband and coworker, Nels, they’re basically the Jay-Z and Beyoncé of hoops and hospitality.

OPERATIONS COORDINATOR

Liam is the newest kid on the block at Basketball Travelers, bringing fresh energy, plenty of curiosity, and a willingness to learn just about anything. A Sport Management major and scout player for Washington State Women’s Basketball, he’s been around the game since age six and brings that same coachability and team-first mindset to every task. Athletic, adventurous, and always smiling, Liam soaks up details like a sponge—and when he’s not working with BTI, you’ll find him hiking a mountain or training for his next Ninja Warrior-style payday.