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Bellevue Today
By the People, for the People
Eastlake's LAB program reshapes success for Sammamish athletes
Young basketball players learn life skills beyond the court through coach's program
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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Young basketball players at Eastlake High School in Sammamish are getting structured help planning life beyond the court through coach Nick Crossan's Life After Basketball (LAB) program. Weekly in-season sessions teach communication, leadership, and practical skills like personal finance, while guest speakers share real-world challenges to keep athletes grounded, community-minded, and prepared for life after their playing days end.
Why it matters
The LAB program at Eastlake High School aims to redefine success for young athletes, shifting the focus beyond just performance on the court to developing well-rounded individuals prepared for life after sports. This approach stands out in a community where athletic achievement is often prioritized, providing student-athletes with valuable life skills and a more holistic path to success.
The details
Coach Nick Crossan's LAB program at Eastlake High School in Sammamish provides weekly in-season sessions for young basketball players, covering topics such as communication, leadership, and personal finance. The program also features guest speakers who share real-world challenges to help keep the athletes grounded, community-minded, and prepared for life after their playing days end.
- The LAB program has been running at Eastlake High School for the past several years.
The players
Nick Crossan
The head basketball coach at Eastlake High School who created the LAB program to help his players develop life skills beyond the court.
Eastlake High School
A high school in Sammamish, Washington where the LAB program is offered to young basketball players.
The takeaway
The LAB program at Eastlake High School demonstrates a shift in how success is defined for young athletes, moving beyond just on-court performance to developing well-rounded individuals prepared for life after sports. This holistic approach provides student-athletes with valuable life skills and a more comprehensive path to success, which stands out in a community where athletic achievement is often prioritized.
