Episode 128: Basketballs and Bibles with Robo Kreps

Welcome to another inspiring edition of The Mental Mettle Podcast, hosted by Coach Matt Thomann. In Episode 128, "Basketballs and Bibles with Robo Kreps," listeners are invited into the remarkable evolution of Robo Kreps—former state champion, college standout, professional basketball player, and now founder of a faith-driven nonprofit impacting young athletes nationwide.

From Elite Athlete to Faithful Mentor

Robo’s story begins with his legendary comeback on the Illinois high school stage: playing in the state tournament only five days after an emergency appendectomy, guided by a moment he now credits to divine intervention. But his journey didn’t stop when the final buzzer sounded—Robo’s transition from “basketball player” to “servant” transformed his perspective, leading him out of pro ball overseas to a mission anchored in purpose and faith.

The Just Go Ball Foundation: Evangelism in the Gym

Moved by his own search for meaning, Robo created the Just Go Ball Foundation—a nonprofit with a simple but revolutionary goal: reach those who may never step foot in a church, but would listen in a gym. The foundation offers free basketball skills training, spiritual testimony, and each event ends with gifts of basketballs and Bibles. Supported by monthly donors, the movement is spreading to schools and teams far beyond Robo’s Tennessee base, providing youth with a model for hard work and hope.

Basketball as Ministry: The Origin and Calling

Robo shares how basketball’s very origins tie sport to evangelism, referencing creator Dr. James Naismith’s vision to “win men to the Maker.” Through this lens, Just Go Ball isn’t just about skills—it’s about connecting kids to something deeper. “Jesus calls Peter at the lake, Matthew while collecting taxes; he goes where people are. I want to go where athletes are: the gym, the court, the locker room.” With faith as anchor, Robo inspires belief, positivity, and resilience—echoing scripture on gratitude, perseverance, and transformation.

Building Winning Mindsets and Environments

Robo’s training approach is holistic. He pushes kids from second grade through the pro ranks to reframe failures—seeing missed shots as practice for bouncing back, not fuel for negativity. "Our words shape everything… highlight the good, respond with grace, and choose a better attitude." From neuroplasticity to scripture, Robo demonstrates that mental toughness is built through positivity, gratitude, and choosing faith over fear. In his nonprofit, every team shares wins to reinforce an encouraging culture; hard work and spirit are developed in the same breath.

Success Stories: Impact Beyond the Stat Sheet

Robo’s foundation reaches hundreds of athletes every year. Success looks like a Nashville camp where a young player “never really heard the gospel until now,” or a junior who transformed from hesitant dribbler to breakout star under Robo’s patient mentorship. Every anecdote reinforces the program’s heart—the mission to help kids achieve on the court and feel accepted off it, even if basketball is eventually set aside.

Faith and Basketball: More Than a Game

Robo’s journey shows that life after basketball can be fuller with faith and service. Walking away from lucrative contracts, he chose a path where meaning comes from giving back, spreading hope, and creating a legacy of spiritually anchored athletes. The game may end, but the impact continues. "When you've got an anchor like Jesus, you have something to play for—and a way to live stronger, more resilient, and with greater joy."

Connect, Contribute, and Grow

If you’re a coach wanting positive change for your team or a parent searching for guidance, Robo Kreps’ story is proof of what’s possible at the intersection of sport and spirit. The Mental Mettle Podcast encourages all listeners to support the mission—reach out to have Robo speak or train, donate, and help spread the word.

For more, contact Coach Matt Thomann at coachthomann@gmail.com
Learn more: www.mentalmettlelifecoaching.com

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