Sequoia Holmes Champions Next Generation of Las Vegas Basketball Players

Sequoia Holmes, a Las Vegas native and accomplished basketball player with international experience, is dedicated to shaping the future of girls’ basketball in her hometown. Her work extends beyond the court, focusing on mentorship, leadership and life skills development for young athletes.

Beyond the Game: A Holistic Approach to Development

Holmes serves as assistant director for Vegas Elite Girls Basketball Club, a Las Vegas-based nonprofit organization serving girls aged 5 to 18. Vegas Elite provides skill development, mentorship, and leadership programming year-round and competes on the Nike circuit. Although, Holmes emphasizes that the program’s impact goes far beyond basketball.

“We’re not just coaching basketball,” Holmes said. “We’re teaching life and what it’s going to be like outside of just what you do in your home. Your journey in basketball is going to be directly translatable to your life. The accountability from me isn’t because I want to win championships or win games. Accountability from me comes because I want you to be able to have a sense of accountability in your life going forward, when maybe your coach isn’t there, your parent isn’t there. You have to be able to stand on your own.”

Building a Legacy in Las Vegas

Holmes’ commitment to the Las Vegas basketball community grew from a desire to provide opportunities she lacked growing up. She partnered with a friend to revamp an existing organization, creating Vegas Elite to fill a void in the city’s youth basketball landscape.

“When I was a little girl playing in the city, there weren’t very many quality options for myself and my teammates and friends that I grew up with to play, with an example of somebody who’s done it,” Holmes explained. “Me being someone who’s played at the professional level and at the college level, I could really pour into and mentor them in an aspect of just understanding and seeing where they’re going.”

Empowering Athletes and Fostering Growth

Holmes has witnessed a significant increase in Las Vegas girls earning Division I and Division II basketball scholarships. She aims to empower her players to reach their full potential, both on and off the court.

“It’s like spontaneous combustion right now,” she said. “I’m seeing so many girls that are getting offered Division I scholarships, Division II scholarships, or opportunities to play basketball beyond high school like never before in our city. All of those things–just being a part of growing that culture and seeing it grow–is just empowering.”

Holmes draws inspiration from mentors throughout her life, including her mother, former professional players like Tina Thompson, and influential high school coaches. She believes in leading through service and prioritizing the needs of her players.

“You really have to learn how to serve before you can lead,” Holmes said. “Be someone who’s not afraid to do the things that no one else wants to do, because oftentimes those are the things that are most needed. I feel in this world in general, we require a lot more people that are willing to do things that aren’t pretty, don’t make us a lot of money, but you lead with your heart first.”

Supporting Vegas Elite

Holmes was recognized for her civic leadership with the 2025 Athletes Unlimited Civic Leadership Award. Vegas Elite welcomes donations of gear, financial support for tournament fees, and travel expenses. The organization is open to anyone in the Las Vegas area interested in joining.

“We just want to be able to offer the tools for anybody who’s in need,” Holmes said. “We have our arms open. Of course, we’re nonprofit, so people that want to donate or bring gear… Those things are greatly appreciated. But mostly just the caring heart. If you have the opportunity to be around, come and be a part of it. We’re open to all of that.”

About Vegas Elite Basketball Club

Vegas Elite Basketball Club is a member of the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL), providing elite athletes with opportunities to compete at a high level, gain exposure to college recruiters, and develop their skills. The club fields teams at the 15U, 16U, and 17U levels. Follow Vegas Elite on Instagram for updates and information.