Doug Marschke

Born and raised  on the southside  of Chicago and shooting hoops on a rim in an alley, Doug Marschke’s journey in the world of basketball began with the echoes of cheering crowds for the Bulls. Growing up as an avid fan, he developed an early appreciation for the sport that would later become a central theme in his life.

Doug’s educational path led him to the University of Michigan during the tail end of the Fab Five era, immersing him in the rich basketball culture of the time. Despite playing football in high school, his true passion for basketball blossomed during his college years. Becoming a gym rat, Doug found himself playing against future NBA players, laying the foundation for his enduring love for the game.

Transitioning into adulthood, Doug became a devoted parent to a son who shared his enthusiasm for basketball. This shared love prompted Doug to volunteer as a coach for his son’s CYO teams. As his son’s interest in the game deepened, Doug explored club basketball as a means to enhance his skills. This venture, however, introduced him to the intricate world of AAU sports, with its confusing dynamics, frustrations, and unavoidable politics.

Navigating the challenges as a parent unfamiliar with the AAU landscape, Doug coached several games at the club level, tirelessly supporting his son’s journey. Yet, as his child matured, so did the complexities of club sports. Frustration set in, fueled by the realization that non-star athletes faced unique hurdles in the competitive realm of youth basketball.

Determined to change the narrative, Doug teamed up to co-found Underdogs Basketball. This venture, born out of a desire to celebrate the love for the game, community, and exceptional teamwork, challenges the traditional metrics of success in youth sports. For Doug, it’s not about who’s the fastest or can jump the highest but about fostering a genuine passion for basketball, building a supportive community, and being an exceptional teammate.