The American Basketball Association (ABA) today announced that Team Redeem, located in South Bend/Elkhart IN has been added to its record-setting expansion and will begin play when the season resumes in November. “We are thrilled to be back in the South Bend/Elkhart area,” stated ABA CEO Joe Newman. “And in Shane Williams-Inez and the Bendr Group, Inc. we have a great ownership team that should maximize the potential on and off the court.”

The organization will be led by Shane Williams-Inez who serves as Team Redeem’s operating principal and the force behind its business, branding and media development. A South Bend native and respected community leader, Williams-Inez brings deep experience in public engagement, small business development and strategic communications. He is the former President of The IMPower Center, a community-based resource hub focused on economic advancement and civic leadership – and maintains strong ties with regional chambers and neighborhood associations throughout Northern Indiana and Southern Michigan.

While he often says he’s “built for the boardroom, not the basketball court,” Williams-Inex is no stranger to building strong teams. His background includes nearly two decades of experience in radio broadcasting and nearly a decade in television broadcasting, billboard and digital advertising, and social media storytelling. His unique skill set positions Team Redeem to not only compete on the court, but also thrive as a brand and movement in the Michiana region.

“Team Redeem is about more than basketball – it’s about restoring belief, rebuilding community connection and reimagining what’s possible when we come together,” added Williams-Inez. “This team belongs to the people of South Bend/Elkhart and the surrounding area. We’re here to represent, engage and inspire.” Team Redeem will announce additional updates including coaching staff, tryout dates, partnerships and venues in the coming weeks.

For more information, contact Team Bendr at team.bendr@gmail.com.