The blueprint:
- Hoop Lab is opening a new 10,238 square foot facility in Commack
- Fourth Commack location on Long Island for Hoop Lab
- The new center employs 12 staff and features six training courts
- Founder Richie Perna created Hoop Lab in 2022 for quality coaching
Hoop Lab, a semi-private basketball training center, has expanded with a new location in Commack.
The company’s newest facility is located in a 10,238-square-foot space at 4 Henry St., behind the RH Outlet. The Commack facility is the fourth Hoop Lab on Long Island, with two locations in Roslyn and another in Syosset. There are also Hoop Labs affiliates in Wayne, NJ and Waltham, Mass.
The new academy, which will employ 12 people, is hosting a grand opening celebration on Friday, October 15, featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a free opening basketball training program.
Hoop Labs offers AI-powered player assessments, experienced small group coaches and flexible membership-based training for more families seeking personalized youth basketball instruction.
Founded in 2022 by Long Island businessman Richie Perna, who struggled to find experienced basketball coaches for his children, Hoop Labs was created as an academy that combines professional instruction, measurable player progress and a schedule that is convenient for families, according to a company statement.
“As a father of three boys who love basketball, I am frustrated by the lack of quality skills training available on Long Island,” Perna said in a statement. “I drive to Harlem four days a week because I can’t find the experienced coaching and structured development that my kids need closer to home. With a background in technology and business, I decided to build a basketball training program that I want for my own kids. Today, we bring quality basketball training to more families, using technology to measure progress and ensure that each player receives the individual attention they deserve.”
Commack Academy has six special basketball training courts with full court capabilities, special areas for the development of speed, agility and strength, and the Dr. basketball shooting system. Training includes shooting, ball handling, finishing in the basket, passing, footwork, defense, decision making and athletic conditioning.
The Hoop Labs concept features a year-round membership model that serves both beginners and experienced athletes while complementing school, recreational and travel basketball programs, according to the company. Experienced instructors follow a structured curriculum supported by AI assessments that identify each athlete’s strengths and development needs, allowing coaches to tailor sessions and measure progress.
Jason Sobel and Brian Ripka of RIPCO Real Estate represented Hoop Lab, while Stephani D’Amato of Cosentino Realty Group represented the landlord, Cosentino Realty Commack PJ LLC, in the Commack lease transaction.