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Basketball in New Mexico has always had talent. It’s always had passion. But for years, something was missing—an elite-level, player-driven league that truly put competition, fairness, and experience first. That’s where Crown the Kingz comes in. Founded by Nathan Wallace and Laro Morinia, two hoopers who lived and breathed the game, Crown the Kingz was created out of a simple realization: if they wanted a better league, they had to build it themselves.
The Spark That Started It All
Wallace and Morinia had spent years playing in various leagues around Albuquerque—county leagues, private leagues, and everything in between. The love for the game was there, but the experience often fell short of what players truly deserved. Then came a moment that changed everything. During a championship game, they voiced concerns to the league organizers about issues they had noticed. The response? “If you don’t like it, you don’t have to play here.” That was all the motivation they needed. Instead of settling for less, they decided to create something better. In just three weeks, Crown the Kingz was born. And what started as an idea quickly became a movement.
Early Challenges & Community Support
Building a league from the ground up isn’t easy. One of the biggest challenges Crown the Kingz faced early on was securing quality venues. Finding reliable, well-maintained gyms that could accommodate their growing league was tough. Through strong relationships and community connections, they were able to partner with Bernalillo High School, Bernalillo Middle School, and Washington Middle School, giving their players a consistent place to compete. But it hasn’t always been smooth—game schedules often have to adjust to school events, and there have been nights when relocation was necessary at the last minute.
Despite the challenges, the players stuck with them. They understood the mission. They knew Wallace and Morinia weren’t just league organizers—they were hoopers just like them.
More Than a League—A Culture
From the start, Crown the Kingz set itself apart. This wasn’t just another run-of-the-mill league. Wallace and Morinia wanted every game to feel like a high-level experience, bringing in microphones, music, and full starting lineups. The league has grown into something bigger than basketball—it’s a culture, an event, and a proving ground for the best players in New Mexico.And they’re still pushing forward. The next evolution? Live podcast interviews after games, giving players a platform to tell their stories and showcase their personalities.
Built on Trust & Brotherhood
Crown the Kingz didn’t succeed just because it was well-run. It succeeded because the players believed in the people behind it.Morinia, a former professional player, built his reputation in Albuquerque long before the league existed. His basketball roots run deep, and his name has been synonymous with excellence and respect in the community. Wallace, too, earned trust on the court, competing alongside the very players who now battle it out in Crown the Kingz. When players trust the people running the league, they buy into the vision. And that trust is exactly why Crown the Kingz isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving.
The Future of Crown the Kingz
This league has already changed the game in New Mexico. But Wallace and Morinia aren’t done yet. Their goal? To take Crown the Kingz to the next level—bigger venues, bigger exposure, and stronger partnerships that can help push New Mexico basketball forward.Now, they’re looking for sponsors and community partners to help grow this movement even further. Businesses, brands, and investors have a chance to be part of something special, to support a league that’s not just giving players a place to hoop—but a place to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
Crown the Kingz was built for players, by players. And if the first few seasons are any indication, it’s only just beginning.
By Ali W.
S2A BASKETBALL NEWS DIRECTOR
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