2023 100 Most Impactful People in Women's Basketball
Steve Klees is the founder and director of the Northwest Blazers, an Under Armour-sponsored AAU girls' basketball program based in Spokane, Washington. Established in 1998, the Northwest Blazers have become one of the premier women's basketball programs in the country, winning numerous national championships and facilitating hundreds of full-ride scholarships for their athletes.
Under Klees's leadership, the program has expanded beyond Eastern Washington to include branches in Montana, Idaho, and Western Washington, notably the Puget Sound Academy established in 2021.
In recognition of his significant contributions to women's basketball, Klees was named among the "100 Most Impactful People in Women's College Basketball" by Silver Waves Media in 2023.
Klees is celebrated for his selfless dedication to developing young talent and fostering opportunities for female athletes in the Pacific Northwest.
Steve Klees
Social Media
Silver Waves Media
@SilverWaveMedia
Congratulations to Steve Klees of GUAA NW Blazers on being named to the 100 Most Impactful People in Women's College Basketball list.
@nwblazershoops
https://www.silverwavesmedia.com/100-impactful-wcbb-23
2026 100 Most Impactful Girls Grassroots Directors in the Northwest
Those included in our list below are considered to be the most impactful and dedicated Boys Grassroots Directors shaping the future of basketball in the Northwest. These leaders are at the forefront of player development, scouting, and team success, helping young athletes reach their full potential. From AAU powerhouses to rising programs, this ranking recognizes those making the biggest impact in grassroots basketball today.
Sources
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Silver Waves Media
100 Impactful People in Women's College Basketball (2023) -
Silver Waves Media
2022 100 Most Impactful People in Women's College Basketball -
X / @SilverWaveMedia
Silver Waves Media post honoring Steve Klees