Meet Our Team
Welcome to the Coaches Page at Grit N Grind Hoops! Here, you'll meet the dedicated team behind our program—passionate leaders committed to developing not just great athletes, but great people. Each coach brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and energy to help every player grow on and off the court. Get to know the faces that make Grit N Grind Hoops a family!

Owner / 6th Grade & 4th Grade Coach
Kobe Elsner
Hey there! My name is Kobe, and I’m incredibly grateful to be on this journey with all of you. I graduated from Lynden High School in 2019, where I had the honor of playing both football and basketball—and was fortunate enough to win two state championships along the way.
After high school, I played five years of college basketball, starting at the University of Puget Sound before transferring to Seattle Pacific University. I graduated from SPU in 2024 with a degree in Health and Fitness Education and a minor in Coaching Science.
Since 2019, I’ve been coaching alongside Hall of Fame Coach Brian Roper, gaining invaluable experience and mentorship that has shaped my philosophy and passion for the game. Founding Grit N Grind Hoops has been a dream come true. It’s about more than just basketball—it's about developing confident, disciplined, and resilient young men and women who carry those lessons with them for life.
I'm excited for what’s ahead and look forward to continuing to grow this community together!

8th Grade Coach
Clayton Whitman
Hi! I’m Coach Clay, and I’m excited to be part of the Grit N Grind Hoops family. I graduated from Lynden High School in 2019, where I was honored to be a two-time 2A Player of the Year and part of two state championship basketball teams. After high school, I continued my basketball journey at Seattle Pacific University from 2019 to 2023 before transferring to Green River Community College. There, I was fortunate to help lead our team to an NWAC Championship.
Basketball has always been a big part of my life, but what I enjoy most now is giving back—helping young athletes grow their skills, confidence, and love for the game. I’m grateful to be coaching alongside great people and to be part of a program that cares about developing players both on and off the court. Let’s get to work!

7th Grade Coach
Brady Elsner
Hey! I’m Coach Brady, and I’m grateful to be part of the Grit N Grind Hoops coaching staff. I graduated from Lynden High School in 2024, where I was fortunate to compete in both football and basketball—winning five state championships during my time there. One of my favorite memories from high school was leading the season in assists, getting to set up my teammates and make plays for others.
I’m currently playing college basketball at Edmonds Community College and just finished up my freshman year. Coaching has always been a passion of mine, and I’m excited to give back and share what I’ve learned with the next generation of athletes. I’m here to help players develop their skills, grow their confidence, and most importantly, enjoy the journey.
I look forward to working with all of you and continuing to grow this amazing community!

7th Grade Coach
Anthony Canales
What’s up! I’m Coach Anthony, and I’m proud to be part of the Grit N Grind Hoops family. I graduated from Lynden High School in 2024, where I was fortunate to be a three-time 2A State MVP, 2A Player of the Year, and part of three state championship teams. I also finished my high school career as Lynden’s all-time leading scorer and was honored to be nominated as a McDonald’s All American.
I’m currently attending Western Washington University, continuing both my education and my love for the game. Basketball has given me so much, and I’m passionate about giving back—helping young athletes develop their skills, mindset, and love for competing. I’m excited to be here, coaching alongside a great group of leaders, and can’t wait to help you grow on and off the court!