Reggie Hines, a former basketball player at JCCC from 1986-88, serves as the director of basketball operations and promotions at The College Basketball Experience at the Sprint Center in Kansas City, Mo.

As he watches one of the countless pickup games played on the facilities' full-length basketball court, a smile comes over his face. He points to a pair of players, a younger kid and an older man, running down the floor side-by-side.

"That kid used to come play by himself, then one day he brought his dad," Hines said. "Now they come together all the time. That is what this place is about-not just learning about the game, but experiencing it."

Founded by the National Association of Basketball Coaches, The CBE is a 41,500-square-foot facility designed to celebrate the history of men's college basketball. The CBE is truly an experience where fans can get a feel for the game through a variety of interactive exhibits. Hines also coordinates and oversees the tournaments, leagues, youth events, corporate events and outreach basketball camps held around the metro area.

"God has truly blessed me," Hines said. "I feel fortunate to be in a place where I can give back to this community."

Flash back 25 years ago, and Hines would tell you he did not envision his career path to be where it is today. Hines grew up in Kansas City. He did not have a father growing up, and his mother poured everything she earned into making sure Hines could attend Bishop Hogan High School. After graduating in 1984, Hines knew college would not be in his future simply because he could not afford to go.

However, two years later, Hines was attending classes at JCCC and playing basketball for Lafayette Norwood. Hines would come up to JCCC in the summer to play pickup games when he wasn't working. Norwood took notice and asked him to join the team. Hines played two seasons at JCCC, and he still ranks among the most accurate shooters in the program's history. He continued his education and playing career at the University of Central Missouri under Coach Jim Wooldridge.

"I attribute my success to three things - my faith, my mother and my college basketball coaches," Hines said. "Lafayette and Jim played a large role in my life and were my mentors. Coach (Norwood) really helped get me get going in the right direction. I had a great experience at Johnson County."

Coincidentally, Hines' favorite exhibits at The CBE is the Mentor's Circle exhibit, which allows visitors to view videos of prominent coaches paying homage to their mentors. While Hines name doesn't appear in the mentor display, that is exactly what he has become. He is making a difference in the lives of many area young people through his camps and by playing pickup games or giving them a tour of the facility, helping them grasp an appreciation for the game.