Taylorsville Basketball Training – Trainers, Camps & Teams
Taylorsville basketball training is embedded in the heart of the Salt Lake Valley — a compact 10-square-mile city with easy access to dozens of programs across southern Salt Lake County. This page helps families understand Taylorsville’s geography, local programs, and how to think through the decision. Not prescribe it.
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Why This Taylorsville Basketball Resource Exists
Taylorsville’s 57,000+ residents are packed into just 10.85 square miles at the center of the Salt Lake Valley, which means more basketball programs are accessible within 15-20 minutes than most Utah families realize. This page helps families understand the local training landscape, seasonal patterns, and the right questions to ask — not tell you who to hire. The best trainer near Redwood Road might not be right for a family near Bangerter, and vice versa.
Our Approach: Context, Not Direction
We don’t rank trainers or camps as “best” — we help you understand what makes different programs right for different needs. The best fit depends on your child’s age, skill level, goals, your family’s schedule, budget, and where you live within Taylorsville’s position in the valley. This page provides evaluation frameworks and local context, not prescriptive recommendations. Learn how BasketballTrainer.com works • Read our editorial standards
Understanding Taylorsville’s Basketball Geography
Taylorsville is uniquely positioned at the center of the Salt Lake Valley. It borders West Valley City to the north, Murray to the east, Kearns and West Jordan to the south and west. That central location is a genuine advantage — most training programs across the valley are within 15-25 minutes. But it also means the Salt Lake basketball ecosystem extends well beyond city lines. The programs worth knowing aren’t only in Taylorsville.
Redwood Road Corridor
What to Know: The spine of Taylorsville. Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) anchors the corridor at 4600 S Redwood Rd, and both ICE Basketball and Complete Shooter operate from 4962 S Redwood Rd — making this the city’s basketball training hub.
- Key Access: I-215 and Bangerter Highway converge nearby
- School: Taylorsville High School (Warriors) on Redwood Rd
- Basketball Hub: SLCC Bruin Arena, multiple private trainers, Junior Jazz leagues
West Side / Bennion Area
What to Know: The historic Bennion community that merged with Taylorsville at incorporation. Valley Regional Park and the Taylorsville Recreation Center are located here at 4948 S 2700 W — the city’s main public basketball facility.
- Key Access: 2700 West corridor; 10 minutes to Redwood Rd
- Recreation: Taylorsville Fitness & Recreation Center — 2 courts, pool, climbing wall
- Access Tip: Free rec pass for all kids 0-18 in Salt Lake County
Kearns Adjacent / Southwest
What to Know: Taylorsville’s southwestern edge blends into Kearns, which hosts one of the region’s standout facilities — the Kearns Oquirrh Park Fitness Center. For Taylorsville families, this is a 10-minute drive that opens up significantly better court access.
- Key Access: 5600 West corridor; Bangerter Highway
- Schools: Kearns High School (Cougars) — fellow 5A Region 4 rival
- Facility: Kearns Oquirrh Park Fitness Center — regulation courts, pool, spa
Murray / East Taylorsville
What to Know: Taylorsville’s eastern border runs into Murray, and the Salt Lake Valley’s broader training ecosystem extends easily from here. Several SLC-based trainers and club programs serve families throughout this corridor, including Club Utah’s South Salt Lake County location and the Salt Lake Sonics.
- Key Access: State Street, I-15 corridor north
- Training Access: 15-20 minutes to Salt Lake City training hubs
- Context: SLCC is minutes from downtown Salt Lake — Taylorsville families have valley-wide access
The Taylorsville Advantage: Central Valley Access
At 10.85 square miles, Taylorsville is compact — most of the city is within 10 minutes of the Redwood Road training corridor. That actually makes Taylorsville one of the better-positioned cities in the valley for basketball training access. The downside? Because it’s surrounded by larger cities, the most competitive select programs draw from the whole valley and often practice at gyms in West Valley, Murray, West Jordan, or Salt Lake City. Don’t let a program’s listed city fool you — if it’s within 20 minutes, it’s worth considering. Taylorsville families are Salt Lake Valley families.
Taylorsville Basketball Trainers
Several dedicated basketball trainers operate in or near Taylorsville, ranging from focused shooting specialists to full player development programs. Taylorsville sits at the convergence of Redwood Road and I-215, making it accessible for players throughout Salt Lake and Jordan districts. Use the evaluation questions later on this page when contacting any program.
ICE Basketball (Coach Jesse Armitstead)
ICE Basketball is Taylorsville’s home-grown player development program, founded by Coach Jesse Armitstead, who trained under Complete Shooter’s Kirk Miles before launching his own full-development program. The name stands for Intelligent, Confident, Effective — and that framing shapes the training philosophy. Sessions use small-sided competitive games (1v1, 2v2, contested shooting) rather than isolated drill work, so players learn to apply skills in real game situations rather than controlled reps. A companion home training app extends development between sessions. Located at 4962 S Redwood Rd, Taylorsville with a second location in Layton. Primarily serves 6th grade through high school, both beginning and advanced players. Monthly training packages typically run in the range comparable to similar Salt Lake Valley programs ($150-250/month); ICE offers a free first session so you can evaluate the fit before committing. Best for middle school and high school players who learn better through competition than repetition.
Complete Shooter (Kirk Miles)
Founded in 1998 by Kirk Miles after coaching 3,000+ games, Complete Shooter identified what he calls “the basketball epidemic” — players who can only score in one or two ways. The program focuses on developing all four scoring methods: driving, foul shooting, mid-range, and three-point shooting. Sessions are semi-private (two players at a time), with every shot tracked, scored, and sent to parents and players via a proprietary app providing weekly stats and accountability. Complete Shooter now trains 700+ players weekly across 26 Utah gyms from St. George to Cache Valley, with the Taylorsville location at 4962 S Redwood Rd. Works with all ages and skill levels. Pricing isn’t published but parents report semi-private sessions run $40-70 per session depending on frequency and package. Best for players with a committed, long-term approach to shooting improvement — this program is built around data and process over months, not weeks.
Utah Top Level Training (UTLT)
Utah Top Level Training offers individual and trio sessions for serious competitive players alongside group clinics for a range of ages. UTLT serves as the official training partner for the Salt Lake Sonics club program (see Teams section), creating a development pipeline from skills training into competitive team play. Sessions are held at various Salt Lake Valley gyms, with one clinic location at the Northwest Community Center (1300 W 300 N, Salt Lake City) — approximately 20 minutes from Taylorsville via I-15. Individual/trio sessions are “for serious players only” with limited availability. Group clinics run weekly in boys and girls sessions separated by age group (elementary through high school). Good fit for committed players who want both structured skill work and a potential path into organized team competition without jumping straight into the full AAU financial commitment.
SLCC Bruin Basketball Camps & Open Recreation
Salt Lake Community College’s primary campus sits directly in Taylorsville at 4600 S Redwood Rd, giving local families access to NJCAA-level facilities for youth programming. The Bruin Arena (Lifetime Activities Center) is a 5,000-seat venue that has hosted NBA G League games — youth players can train in the same building where Gary Payton II launched his path to the NBA. SLCC’s recreation department offers open court reservations and community access to basketball facilities. SLCC periodically runs youth basketball clinics and camps using NJCAA coaching staff. Check SLCC’s athletics and recreation pages for current offerings. Open recreation/court access pricing is available through SLCC’s community fitness program — typically modest fees for non-students. Best for families wanting proximity-based access to a legitimate college basketball atmosphere right in Taylorsville.
Killer Bees Basketball Club (Coach Johnny Saccomanno)
The Killer Bees Basketball Club was founded in 2010 by Coach Johnny Saccomanno, whose background includes coaching youth AAU teams, time as Director of Basketball Operations at Weber State University, and assistant coaching at Westminster College. The program runs from the Holladay/Murray/Sandy area (20-25 minutes from Taylorsville), offering teams that practice 1-2 times per week and compete in local Super Leagues and AAU tournaments. While technically categorized as a club program, the Killer Bees’ size allows for individual attention. The organization blends skill development with team competition in a way that serves families who aren’t ready for the full commitment of a large travel program. Team participation costs typically run $100-200/month depending on age and commitment level. Best for grades 2-9 players who want team experience and skill development without the heavyweight AAU travel budget.
Taylorsville Area Basketball Camps
Basketball camps in and near Taylorsville run primarily during summer months, with some options during winter and spring breaks. Most of the best options for Taylorsville families are within 10-20 minutes of the city. Costs range from affordable municipal programs to SLCC-level instruction that comes with real D-league facility access.
SLCC Bruins Basketball Camps
The most geographically convenient camp option for Taylorsville families — literally on Redwood Road. SLCC periodically runs summer youth camps utilizing their Bruin Arena facilities and NJCAA coaching staff. The program builds on SLCC’s basketball pedigree, which includes two NJCAA national championships (2009 and 2016) and a history of developing players who advance to D1 programs. Specific camp dates, age groups, and pricing vary by year — check SLCC Athletics directly for current summer programming. Generally expect rates comparable to university-run camps: $100-200+ per week. Best for families who want legitimate college coaching instruction in a facility that players will find genuinely motivating.
Taylorsville Rec Center Junior Jazz Basketball
The most affordable and convenient option for Taylorsville families who want structured youth basketball. Salt Lake County runs the Junior Jazz youth basketball league at the Taylorsville Recreation Center (4948 S 2700 West), serving kindergarten through 6th grade in coed and boys divisions. This isn’t a summer camp — it’s a seasonal league — but for many families it’s the logical first step before private training or travel teams. Registration fees are modest (typically $35-65/season through Salt Lake County Parks & Recreation). The “My County Rec Pass” gives all Salt Lake County residents ages 0-18 free access to rec center facilities. Best for young players (K-6) getting their first structured basketball experience in a low-pressure environment close to home.
ICE Basketball Summer Skills Camp
ICE Basketball runs summer camp programs out of their Taylorsville facility at 4962 S Redwood Rd. Following the same “Intelligent, Confident, Effective” competitive-game methodology as their year-round training, summer camps immerse players in game-based skill development rather than pure drill work. Week-long camp pricing is consistent with similar Salt Lake Valley programs ($120-180/week). Parent reviews highlight the small-group atmosphere and Coach Jesse’s ability to maintain intensity while keeping younger players engaged. Best for 6th grade through high school players who already have some fundamentals and want to level up during the summer window before tryout season.
Club Utah Valley Basketball — Skills Lab & Camps
Club Utah’s South Salt Lake County location — branded as Valley Basketball powered by Club Utah — serves the Taylorsville area with year-round programs that span from foundational Skills Lab (twice-weekly instruction for 3rd-8th grade boys and girls), to Academy teams, to competitive club teams. Camp-style programs are available through their skills curriculum and seasonal breaks. Registration is open year-round, which is unusual and helpful for families who miss traditional signup windows. Monthly dues for the competitive program run approximately $135/month plus uniform, tournament, and league fees. Best for families who want a structured developmental pathway with the option to ramp up to competition — rather than jumping into a travel program before the player is ready.
Utah Hoops Training
Utah Hoops operates across South Salt Lake County, including Herriman, Riverton, and Bluffdale (all within 20-30 minutes of Taylorsville), offering private lessons and group training with an emphasis on shooting mechanics and fundamentals at game speed. The program draws on techniques from renowned professional shot trainer Mike Dunn. Parent reviews consistently highlight patience, correct technique emphasis, and improvements in player confidence. Group training sessions run approximately $30-60 per person depending on group size. Individual sessions are priced similarly to comparable valley programs. Best for elementary and middle school players who need patient, fundamentals-first instruction and players specifically working to fix shooting form.
Taylorsville Area Select Basketball Teams
Select and AAU basketball teams serving Taylorsville families operate throughout the Salt Lake Valley. Most draw players from the entire metro area, so “Salt Lake City” or “South Salt Lake County” teams are fully accessible to Taylorsville families. Travel typically means tournaments in Utah County, Davis County, Las Vegas, and Phoenix depending on the program’s level. Tryouts typically happen in late summer and February/March.
Salt Lake Sonics
The Salt Lake Sonics offer boys and girls competitive and development teams from 3rd grade through high school, with tryouts typically in August and rolling enrollment when spots are available. The program is transparent about costs: team participation runs approximately $1,710 per season, covering gym costs, coaching, four local league entries, and administration. That cost does not include tournament travel — budget additional funds for AAU registration, uniforms, and any tournament-specific fees. The Sonics partner with Utah Top Level Training (UTLT) for skill development alongside team competition, which is a useful pipeline if you want both structured skills work and team play under one organizational umbrella. Teams compete in the Dimple Dell Super League and AAU tournaments. Best for players ready to make the team sport commitment with transparent, upfront cost information.
Club Utah Valley (South Salt Lake County)
Club Utah’s South Salt Lake County location explicitly serves Taylorsville families and the broader southern valley. The program’s philosophy focuses on player development over win-loss records — their structure flows from beginner Skill Lab through Academy (competitive scrimmage-based) to fully competitive Club teams that can earn travel privileges. Monthly dues run approximately $135/month for competitive teams, not including uniforms, tournament, and league fees. Year-round open enrollment is unusual in a space where many programs force August or February signup windows. Club Utah operates out of local gyms and schools, with schedules and locations announced by team. Best for families who want a clear developmental pathway with the option to move up or dial back depending on how the player’s commitment develops.
Utah Select Basketball
Utah Select has been operating since 2008, offering 2nd through 9th grade boys teams with a reputation for competitive pricing and accessible programs. The coaching staff includes former BYU forward Logan Magnusson (2009-2011), adding legitimate college pedigree to the program. Utah Select emphasizes being player-focused and affordable relative to the competitive AAU market — parent reviews often cite this as a reason for choosing them over larger, more expensive programs. Teams compete in both AAU and competitive local circuits. A good option for families entering competitive basketball who want proven organizational infrastructure without the premium pricing of the valley’s elite programs. Contact for current pricing; the program advertises “affordable fees” as a differentiator.
Utah Basketball Club (UBC Elite)
Established in 2003 (originally as Utah Pump-N-Run), UBC Elite is among the most established travel programs in the state, with 30+ 17U championships and 210+ scholarship athletes over two decades. This is Utah’s Adidas Gold Gauntlet program — a genuine high-exposure circuit for players with college aspirations. UBC Elite fields boys high school teams (15U-17U) competing in spring and summer grassroots tournaments nationally. This is not an entry-level program. It demands significant travel commitment and budget (comparable programs at this level run $2,000-3,500+ annually, plus national tournament travel costs). Best for high school players whose goal is college recruitment exposure and who have the athletic profile to compete at a national grassroots level.
Mountain Stars Basketball Club (Utah Stars)
Mountain Stars is Utah’s Under Armour Association program — one of the elite national grassroots circuits — competing at the 15U, 16U, and 17U levels. Founded in 2012, the program subsidizes athletes averaging $15K per player toward college recruitment, which puts it in a completely different financial ecosystem than most club programs. Mountain Stars also runs global programming including African leadership trips and community service components. This is for elite high school prospects, not the typical youth basketball family. If your 15-17 year old is genuinely D1-caliber, this program’s national exposure may be worth the cost and commitment. For everyone else, this program is worth understanding so you know where the competitive ceiling in Utah basketball sits.
Taylorsville Area High School Basketball
Taylorsville High School is the city’s own program, competing in the UHSAA 5A Region 4 alongside a group of competitive rivals. The region features strong basketball culture across multiple schools within a compact geographic area — games are typically cross-valley rather than cross-state.
Taylorsville City — Granite School District
- Taylorsville High School — Home of the Warriors, 5225 S Redwood Rd. 5A classification, ~2,700 students. Built in 1981 to serve the growing Taylorsville population. Strong JROTC program; diverse student body (49% White, 36% Latinx, 3% Asian).
5A Region 4 Rivals
Taylorsville competes in a region that includes most of the surrounding communities, which means rival games are short drives and often packed with local fans:
- Kearns High School (Cougars) — direct neighbor to the southwest; historic rivalry
- Hunter High School (Wolverines) — West Valley City, 10 minutes north
- Granger High School (Lancers) — West Valley City
- West Jordan High School (Jaguars) — West Jordan
- Cyprus High School (Pirates) — West Valley City
- Hillcrest High School (Huskies) — Midvale
- West High School (Panthers) — Salt Lake City
Tryouts for school teams typically occur in October under UHSAA guidelines. The school season runs November through February, with state tournament play into late February. The UHSAA website has official playoff brackets and schedules. Both boys and girls programs compete at Taylorsville High School — check the school’s athletics page for current coaching staff and tryout information.
How to Use These Listings
These are Taylorsville-area trainers, camps, and teams that families in the area work with. We don’t rank them as “best” or endorse specific programs. Use the evaluation questions in the next section when contacting any of these options. The right fit depends on your child’s age, skill level, goals, your family’s schedule, and your budget. Contact 2-3 options before committing to see which feels right. Download our free trainer evaluation guide for specific questions to ask.
Taylorsville Recreation Centers: Basketball Courts & Access
Before exploring private training, Taylorsville families should understand a major advantage unique to Salt Lake County residents: the My County Rec Pass gives all residents ages 0-18 free access to Salt Lake County recreation centers. That’s not a reduced rate — it’s free. For youth basketball, that changes the calculus significantly. Here’s what you need to know about facilities within or near Taylorsville.
Taylorsville Fitness & Recreation Center
The Home Court
Address: 4948 South 2700 West, Taylorsville, UT 84129 | Phone: (385) 468-1731
The city’s official rec center, operated by Salt Lake County Parks & Recreation in partnership with Taylorsville City. Two full-size indoor basketball courts, along with a 45-foot climbing wall (unique in the area), indoor soccer, pickleball, fitness room, batting cage, and a pool. Youth sports programs run through the center including Junior Jazz basketball (K-6), youth soccer, and volleyball.
Basketball Court Hours:
- Monday–Friday: Open noon to close (mornings reserved for pickleball)
- Sunday: 9 AM–3 PM
- Saturday: Check current schedule (hours vary seasonally)
What Sets It Apart: Junior Jazz youth leagues run here each season. Valley Regional Park adjoins the facility with six outdoor basketball hoops — open to the public at no cost, year-round.
Kearns Oquirrh Park Fitness Center — The Upgrade
Worth the 10-Minute Drive
Address: 5624 Cougar Lane, Kearns, UT 84118 | Operated by Oquirrh Recreation & Parks District (not Salt Lake County)
Yelp reviewers call this “the best rec center in the valley by a mile” and highlight the regulation-sized basketball courts and spa/sauna. It’s operated independently of Salt Lake County, which means the My County Rec Pass doesn’t apply — you’ll pay daily or membership fees. But Taylorsville families consistently report this is worth it for the facility quality. Indoor pool, fitness room, and courts that serious players describe as genuinely game-quality.
Operating Hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: Noon – 5:00 PM
Cost: Daily passes and memberships available; contact facility for current rates. This is an independent district facility — separate fees from Salt Lake County rec system.
SLCC Lifetime Activities Center (LAC)
The Historic Court
Address: 4600 S Redwood Rd, Taylorsville, UT 84123 (on SLCC campus)
A 5,000-seat arena that has hosted NJCAA national championship-level basketball, NBA G League games, and launched the career of Gary Payton II. The LAC is available for community use through SLCC’s recreation program — court reservations and community fitness access are available to non-students. This is where the Rocky Mountain Revue NBA preseason tournament was held until 2008. Playing on this court connects local youth to a genuine basketball history. Check SLCC’s recreation pages for current community access pricing and availability.
Why This Matters: There are very few cities where a youth basketball player can access a college arena’s community program by walking or biking from home. Taylorsville is one of them.
The My County Rec Pass: Free Access for Kids 0-18
Salt Lake County’s My County Rec Pass gives all county residents ages 0-18 free access to all Salt Lake County recreation centers, including the Taylorsville Fitness & Recreation Center.
How to Get the Pass:
- Visit any Salt Lake County recreation center in person
- Register your child (must be a Salt Lake County resident)
- Bring proof of residency and the child’s birth certificate or school ID
For income-qualified families: bring a copy of your child’s free or reduced lunch eligibility form for additional discount benefits beyond the standard pass. More info: Salt Lake County Parks & Recreation
Evaluating Basketball Training Options in Taylorsville
These questions help you make an informed decision — not validate a decision you’ve already made. Good trainers and programs expect questions. If someone gets defensive when you ask, that’s useful information too.
Questions to Ask Private Trainers
Why this matters: Vague answers like “develop their game” signal the trainer doesn’t have a structured approach. Specific targets like “improve left hand finishing and free throw consistency” mean they’ve assessed your player and have a plan.
Why this matters: Both approaches have merit but produce different results. ICE Basketball’s competitive game model and Complete Shooter’s tracked repetition model serve different learning styles. Know which fits your child before you commit.
Why this matters: Life happens — school conflicts, family events, illness. Understanding the policy before you pay your first month protects both parties.
Why this matters: Complete Shooter tracks every shot and sends weekly data. ICE Basketball uses competitive game performance. Some trainers have no tracking at all. Knowing what accountability looks like helps you evaluate progress.
Why this matters: Most reputable trainers in the area — ICE Basketball explicitly advertises a free first session. Trainers who won’t let you observe before paying deserve a closer look at why.
Questions to Ask About Select / AAU Teams
Why this matters: The Salt Lake Sonics advertise $1,710/season, then add travel costs separately. UBC Elite costs more but includes national exposure. Know the real number, not the headline fee, before you commit.
Why this matters in Utah: Many Salt Lake Valley programs travel to Utah County, Davis County, and Las Vegas. Competitive programs add Phoenix, Boise, and national circuits. A 2-day Las Vegas tournament means two hotel nights — budget that in.
Why this matters: Equal time for development versus merit-based time for competitive teams are both valid — but they produce different experiences for your child. Understand which this program is before your 9-year-old sits two quarters in every game wondering why.
Why this matters: Salt Lake Sonics explicitly states no refunds after any programming begins. Other programs vary. This isn’t about assuming your child will quit — it’s about understanding what you’re signing up for financially.
Taylorsville-Area Pricing Reality
Municipal Rec / Junior Jazz: Free with My County Rec Pass (ages 0-18); seasonal league fees $35-65
Private Training: $40-70/semi-private session; $150-250/month for ongoing group programs
Summer Camps: $100-200/week depending on facility and instruction level
Select / AAU Teams: $1,200-3,500/season in program fees, plus $1,500-3,000+ in tournament travel costs for competitive programs
Free Basketball Training Evaluation Guide
Download our comprehensive guide with Taylorsville-specific considerations, red flags to watch for, and questions to ask before committing to any program.
Taylorsville Basketball Season: What to Expect
Understanding when different basketball programs run in Utah helps families plan without panic. This timeline is meant for context and planning — not urgency.
High School Season (UHSAA)
Typical Timeline: Practice begins mid-October under UHSAA rules. Games run November through February. State tournament runs into late February. Both boys and girls programs follow similar timing.
What This Means: If your child is trying to make Taylorsville High School’s team, September and October are the months to be in pre-tryout training mode. Private trainers in the area (Complete Shooter, ICE Basketball) see demand spike in late summer specifically for tryout prep.
Select / AAU Season
Typical Timeline:
- August: Many programs (Salt Lake Sonics, Club Utah) hold tryouts and begin fall seasons
- February–March: Spring season tryouts — note the overlap with school basketball playoffs
- March–June: Spring circuit — regional tournaments across Utah, Nevada, and Arizona
- June–August: Peak summer — national circuits for high-exposure programs (UBC Elite, Mountain Stars); Super League for local programs
The Utah Basketball Reality: Utah’s AAU ecosystem has multiple layers. Local Super League and Bantam programs provide affordable in-state competition. Programs like Utah Select and Club Utah serve the middle tier. UBC Elite (Adidas Gold Gauntlet) and Mountain Stars (Under Armour Association) are the elite national exposure tier. Most Taylorsville families don’t need — and shouldn’t be pressured into — the national circuits until a player is genuinely demonstrating high school varsity-level ability. Start local, evaluate honestly.
Youth Recreation / Junior Jazz
Taylorsville Rec Center runs Junior Jazz basketball (K-6) through multiple seasons during the school year. Registration typically opens a few weeks before each season begins. Salt Lake County Parks & Recreation is your source for current schedules — check their website or contact the Taylorsville Rec Center directly.
Taylorsville’s Basketball Culture & Heritage
Taylorsville doesn’t have the decades-long high school basketball tradition of some Utah cities — it wasn’t even incorporated until 1996. But what it has is something different: the SLCC Bruins sitting on Redwood Road, two NJCAA national championships hanging in the Lifetime Activities Center, and a notable chapter in the story of Gary Payton II’s path to the NBA.
The SLCC Bruins: Two National Championships
Salt Lake Community College’s men’s basketball program has won two NJCAA national championships — in 2009 and 2016 — out of the arena sitting at 4600 S Redwood Rd, right in Taylorsville. These aren’t just regional accomplishments. NJCAA national championships place a program among the elite of two-year college basketball nationally. The 2009 title game (defeating Midland College) and the 2016 championship (defeating Hutchinson Community College 74-64) represent the kind of competitive benchmark that makes SLCC’s Taylorsville campus a genuinely meaningful basketball institution — not just a community rec option.
The program has produced multiple college transfers to four-year programs and 54 NJCAA All-Americans since 1985. For Utah families, the SLCC pipeline matters: players who aren’t D1 recruits out of high school can develop at SLCC and earn opportunities at the next level. That’s a pathway worth knowing about.
Gary Payton II: From Taylorsville to the NBA
Gary Payton II — “Young Glove,” son of Hall of Famer Gary Payton — played two seasons at SLCC before earning a scholarship to Oregon State and ultimately winning an NBA championship with the Golden State Warriors in 2022. His freshman season (2012-13) on the Taylorsville campus was the first step in an unconventional path: not recruited out of high school, he chose SLCC to develop his game on his own terms rather than ride his father’s name to a lower-level D1 program.
The story matters not because every Taylorsville player will follow that path — they won’t — but because it illustrates something true about basketball development. Payton didn’t make his high school varsity program a primary story. He built his game through process and earned his way to Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year, NBA champion, and one of the premier defenders in the league. The Bruin Arena where he played is on Redwood Road. Local players can walk that floor.
The Utah Jazz Connection
The Rocky Mountain Revue — the NBA’s preseason tournament — was hosted at SLCC’s Lifetime Activities Center until 2008, bringing NBA teams to Taylorsville annually. The Salt Lake City Stars (the Utah Jazz’s G League affiliate) also played games in the LAC over the years. For a city that incorporated in 1996 and is entirely urban, that’s a meaningful professional basketball footprint. The Salt Lake Valley’s LDS community creates a unique basketball culture too — heavy participation in youth sports, strong community recreation infrastructure, and strong support for both boys and girls programs at every level.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taylorsville Basketball Training
These are the questions families in the Taylorsville area ask most when starting the basketball training journey.
How much does basketball training cost in Taylorsville?
Costs vary significantly by program type. The best starting point for most Taylorsville families is free — the My County Rec Pass gives kids ages 0-18 free access to the Taylorsville Fitness & Recreation Center, including open court time and Junior Jazz basketball leagues (seasonal registration fees $35-65). Private training through programs like ICE Basketball or Complete Shooter runs roughly $40-70 per semi-private session, or $150-250/month for ongoing packages. Summer camps typically cost $100-200 per week depending on the facility. Select/AAU team programs start around $1,200-1,700/season in program fees alone — not counting tournament travel, which can easily add another $1,000-2,500 depending on how far the program travels.
Is the My County Rec Pass actually free? What’s the catch?
It’s actually free for Salt Lake County residents ages 0-18. There’s no catch — it’s a Salt Lake County Parks & Recreation initiative designed to give all kids access to recreation facilities. You need to register in person at any Salt Lake County rec center with proof of residency and the child’s ID or birth certificate. Once registered, your child can use any Salt Lake County recreation center — including the Taylorsville Fitness & Recreation Center — without a daily fee. Note: This pass applies to Salt Lake County-operated facilities. The Kearns Oquirrh Park Fitness Center is operated by a separate district and has its own fees.
What age should my child start basketball training in Taylorsville?
There’s no single right age — it depends entirely on your child’s interest, not a competitive development calendar. Junior Jazz at the Taylorsville Rec Center starts at kindergarten and is a great first basketball experience for ages 5-8 without pressure. Private training becomes more productive around ages 8-10 when players can focus on specific technique. ICE Basketball and Complete Shooter both primarily work with 6th grade and above, while Club Utah’s Skill Lab starts at 3rd grade. The most important factors are whether your child is asking to play versus you wanting them to play, and whether your family can sustain the time and financial commitment at whatever level you choose.
Does Taylorsville have girls basketball training options?
Yes. Most programs in the area serve both boys and girls. Club Utah Valley explicitly offers girls teams from 3rd grade through high school. Utah Top Level Training runs separate girls clinics by age group (4th/5th grade, 6th-8th grade) on Thursday evenings. The Salt Lake Sonics offer girls competitive and development teams. Taylorsville High School fields both boys and girls varsity and JV teams under UHSAA guidelines. Complete Shooter and ICE Basketball both work with girl athletes in private/semi-private settings. The Taylorsville Rec Center Junior Jazz program is coed at the younger levels. If you’re specifically focused on girls basketball development, Club Utah and UTLT are the strongest structured options currently operating in the South Salt Lake County area.
Should my child do AAU or focus on school basketball?
This is one of the most common false dilemmas in youth basketball. Most players do both — the school season runs October through February, and AAU season peaks March through August, so they largely don’t conflict. The more important question is whether your child is ready for AAU’s financial and time commitment at all. Many Taylorsville families start with school basketball and Junior Jazz, add private training in the off-season, and only move to travel teams when a player is genuinely showing the drive and ability to benefit from that level of competition. Utah’s AAU community also has a reputation for being an expensive landscape — particularly Bantam basketball, which parents often describe as “overpriced for the competition level.” Local Super League and Club Utah programs are generally considered better value for younger players.
Where do Taylorsville players practice and train if programs list other cities?
This is an important Taylorsville-specific reality. Because Taylorsville is compact (10.85 square miles) and surrounded by larger cities, most programs draw from the whole Salt Lake Valley and practice at whatever gyms are available — schools, rec centers, church gyms — throughout the metro area. A program listed in Salt Lake City or West Valley may practice 15 minutes from your home in Taylorsville. A “Taylorsville trainer” may use a gym across the valley. When evaluating any program, always ask specifically where practices and training sessions are held, which days, and how that fits with commute times from your home. The I-215/Bangerter Highway access from Taylorsville generally makes most Salt Lake Valley locations manageable.
Is SLCC worth considering as a basketball pathway for my high school player?
Absolutely, and more families should think about it. Salt Lake Community College’s Bruin basketball program has produced NJCAA national championships, dozens of NJCAA All-Americans, and players who’ve transferred to D1 programs. Gary Payton II went from SLCC to Oregon State to the NBA — not as a publicity stunt but because SLCC gave him the development environment and coaching to reach the next level. For high school players who aren’t being recruited directly by four-year programs, SLCC represents a legitimate, geographically accessible pathway. The program has a direct pipeline to four-year schools in the Mountain West and Pac-12. This isn’t a consolation prize — it’s a strategy that has demonstrably worked for players who were willing to put in the development work.
Taylorsville Basketball Training Options at a Glance
| Training Option | Cost Range | Best For | Time Commitment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior Jazz / Rec Leagues | Free–$65/season | Ages K-6, first basketball experience | 1-2 practices + game/week; 8-10 week seasons |
| Private/Semi-Private Training | $40-70/session; $150-250/month | Skill development, pre-tryout prep, 6th grade+ | 1-3 sessions/week, flexible scheduling |
| Summer Camps | $100-200/week | Skill building during school break; any age | 1-2 week programs, June-August |
| Club / Development Team | $135/month + fees | Players wanting team experience with development focus | 2 practices/week + local games/tournaments |
| AAU / Select Travel Team | $1,200-3,500/season + travel | Competitive players; high school college prep | 2-3 practices/week + weekend tournaments; 6+ months |
Cost ranges represent typical Taylorsville-area Salt Lake Valley programs as of 2026. Many programs offer financial assistance, sibling discounts, or sliding-scale pricing. Always ask.
Getting Started with Basketball Training in Taylorsville
If you’re new to basketball training or just starting your child’s journey, here’s a practical path that’s worked for a lot of Salt Lake Valley families.
Step 1: Know Your Goal
“My child loves basketball and wants to play” is a very different goal than “my child wants to make their school team” or “my child wants a college scholarship.” The goal determines the right program. Many Taylorsville families start at the rec center — free, local, low-pressure — before deciding whether to go further. That’s not a fallback. That’s the sensible path for most families.
Step 2: Start With the Free Option
Get your child’s My County Rec Pass and spend a month at the Taylorsville Recreation Center before spending money on private training. Watch how your child engages. Do they want more? Do they practice between sessions? That answer tells you more about readiness for private training than any online research will.
Step 3: Try Before You Commit
ICE Basketball offers a free first session. Club Utah offers free evaluations. Most quality programs will let you observe a session. Use these. The fit between a player and a specific coach or environment matters more than credentials on paper. Your 7th grader knowing whether they clicked with Coach Jesse after one session is worth more than three hours of online research.
Step 4: Be Honest About Sustainability
A $60/month program you consistently attend beats a $300/month program you quit after eight weeks. Taylorsville families generally have good options at multiple price points. Choose the level you can maintain for a full year — not the most impressive-sounding option. Consistency over 12 months will beat expensive burst spending on the best program in the valley.
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Specific questions to ask trainers, camps, and teams before committing. Built for Utah families.
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