How Pick-Up Basketball Shaped Our Mission, Our Culture, and Our Games

A Hobby That Became Nex’s Blueprint

Without pick-up basketball, there would be no Nex.

I’m 5’5”. I’m not even good at it. Usually, I’m the last one picked for a team.

But I love it—running with friends, making a shot, setting a screen, and wrapping it up with a high-five and a “good game.”

Our “home” courts. Left: The court next to Nex's first office in San Jose. Middle: The court we frequented at Apple. Right: The court next to my first startup's office.

We played regularly at my first startup—there was a basketball court right next to our building. We played throughout my eight years at Apple. People who know me know I never say no to a game. For years, I went out of my way to make sure we had a weekly run.

That love for the game is how Nex got started. Our first product was HomeCourt, a basketball training app. Pick-up games have been part of Nex’s culture from day one—it’s how we want working at Nex to feel.

When we pivoted from HomeCourt to building motion games, we asked ourselves:

What kind of games should Nex make?

Something like pick-up basketball. That’s our north star.

Games that are physical, social, and fun—A wholesome alternative to sedentary, isolating entertainment.

Pick-up basketball became our guiding metaphor because it blends spontaneity, competition, and community—simply and accessibly. Here’s why it’s so powerful:

• No Pressure, Just Play

  It’s casual. No leagues, no coaches. Just fun.

• Inclusive by Nature

  Everyone’s welcome. Skill levels don’t matter—just show up.

• Spontaneous and Dynamic

  Strangers and friends mix. Matchups shift. Every game feels different—and exciting.

• Social at Its Core

  It’s not just about hoops. It’s a place to connect, bond, laugh, and compete.

• Creative Freedom

  No rigid systems. Just space to improvise—flashy moves, trick shots, whatever feels right.

• Fitness Disguised as Fun

  Cardio, agility, strength—it’s my favorite way to work out.

• The Trash Talk

  The playful banter is half the fun. It adds energy and keeps things light.

• Accessible to All

  All you need is a ball and a hoop. Just show up and play.

• Memories That Stick

  Game-winners. Comebacks. That one perfect assist. These are moments that stay with you.

Look closely, and you’ll see these same elements in our games.

The culture of pick-up basketball has shaped our why, how, and what.

And now?

We’re building a company to bring that same pick-up magic—physical, social, fun—into every living room.

We call it Active Play.