Two Brothers with Two Visions But One Purpose

Brent Cowles is a former professional basketball player and experienced coach with a strong background in athlete development, leadership, and mentorship. He played collegiately at Barber-Scotia College before continuing his career at Livingstone College in Salisbury, North Carolina, where he finished among the top two leading scorers during both his junior and senior seasons. Brent earned All-Freshman and All-Conference honors, establishing himself as a high-impact player with a competitive edge and strong basketball IQ.

Following his collegiate career, Brent played professionally both internationally and within the United States. He was selected in the first round of the World Basketball Association (WBA) Draft in 2005 and later drafted 10th overall in the Universal Basketball Association (UBA) Draft in 2011. His professional experience includes competing in 13 countries, including England, Finland, Ireland, Bosnia, Canada, China, and the Philippines. He also toured with the world-renowned Harlem Globetrotters and participated in NBA D-League draft camps, receiving invitations for private workouts with organizations affiliated with the Charlotte Hornets and Indiana Pacers.

Since transitioning into coaching, Brent has dedicated his career to developing athletes at all levels. He has coached boys and girls teams ranging from ages 10 to 19 through Wilkes Hoop Group, LLC, leading teams to numerous AAU and travel tournament victories while helping athletes gain exposure to collegiate programs such as NC State, UNC, and the University of Virginia. His coaching emphasizes skill development, discipline, and preparing players for the next level both on and off the court.

Brent is deeply passionate about using basketball as a platform to impact lives beyond the game. Through his work with Wilkes Hoop Group, LLC, he is committed to creating structured, positive environments where youth can develop confidence, discipline, and strong character. He believes in mentorship as a critical tool for growth and intentionally invests in building relationships with his players, guiding them not only as athletes but as young individuals navigating life. Brent is driven by a desire to open doors for youth in rural and underserved communities, providing them with opportunities for exposure, personal development, and a pathway toward higher education and future success.

Matthew Cowles is the Owner and Managing Member of Outsidas Universal, Inc, where he leads business operations, strategic development, and hands-on automotive repair services. With nearly two decades of experience in collision repair and refinishing, Matthew is highly skilled in paintless dent repair (PDR), wheel repair and refinishing, detailing, and cosmetic vehicle restoration. He is known for his precision craftsmanship and ability to restore vehicles to their original condition without invasive methods.

Matthew received formal training through the Mercedes-Benz ELITE Collision Repair Technology Program and earned a diploma in Collision Repair Technology from Universal Technical Institute, where he graduated with honors. His technical expertise is supported by numerous certifications, including I-CAR Gold Class credentials, MIG welding qualification, and EPA certification. In addition to his technical background, Matthew has experience as an instructor at Central Piedmont Community College, where he trained and mentored students in collision repair techniques. His combined experience in hands-on repair, teaching, and business leadership positions him as a respected professional in the automotive reconditioning industry. 

Beyond his technical expertise, Matthew is deeply committed to serving his community and creating opportunities for others. Through Outsidas Universal, Inc and its Trade Skills & Workforce Development Initiative through Two Paths One Purpose, he is working to bridge the gap between education and real-world career pathways particularly for youth and adults in rural and underserved communities. His vision extends beyond automotive services; he is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of skilled trades professionals by providing hands-on learning, guidance, and exposure to meaningful career opportunities. Matthew believes in the dignity of skilled work and is passionate about empowering individuals to build confidence, develop practical skills, and pursue sustainable, purpose-driven careers.