San Francisco, CA — 02/18/26 — Underdogs Basketball, one of the Bay Area’s fastest-growing youth basketball organizations, today announced a strategic merger with Riptide Basketball, a respected community-based program known for its skill-focused workshops and strong player development at the elementary and middle school levels.
The merger brings together Underdogs’ established club platform and competitive pathways with Riptide’s proven clinic and workshop model and early-age development expertise in addition to their successful AAU program. Together, the organizations will expand access to high-quality training, increase the number of club teams at the grade school level, and create a more seamless pipeline from introductory basketball through advanced competitive play.
A key focus of the partnership will be the expansion of Riptide’s highly regarded workshops and clinics under the Underdogs Basketball umbrella, providing families with more year-round opportunities for skill development, confidence building, and love for the game.
“ This partnership is about people and shared values,” said Tom Marx, Managing Partner of Underdogs Basketball. “Riptide has built something special at the community level. Their workshops, player development approach, and relationships with families align perfectly with what we believe Underdogs should stand for. Together, we’re creating a stronger foundation for young players and more opportunities for them to grow.”
The merger will also allow Underdogs to meaningfully expand its presence at the grade school level, adding more teams, more entry points, and clearer development pathways for younger athletes.
“ We’ve always believed in building players the right way, starting with fundamentals, confidence, and community,” said Nick Castaneda, of Riptide Basketball. “Partnering with Underdogs allows us to scale what we do best while staying true to who we are. We’re excited to bring our workshops and early development programs to more families and to be part of a larger platform that shares our long-term vision.”
Families currently participating in either program can expect continuity in coaching, expanded offerings, and enhanced resources as the organizations integrate over the coming months. Both organizations emphasized that the merger is focused on long-term partnership rather than short-term change, with an emphasis on culture, development, and opportunity.
ABOUT RIPTIDE BASKETBALL Riptide Basketball is a community-based youth basketball program recognized for its high-quality workshops, clinics, and early-age development programs. Riptide has built its program through its AAU program and quickly recognized the importance of early-age development, bolting on its workshops and clinics. Riptide emphasizes fundamentals, skill-building, and positive player experiences while fostering strong relationships with families and local partners.
