By: Amira Ahles, MU Student and NWSP Intern
A few blocks from Marquette’s campus, Nathan built more than just a barbershop. He built a space for people to come together.
Nathan, the founder of Ballers Club, always knew he wanted to be an entrepreneur. He started off cutting hair, then tried vending machines, which didn’t work out. But he didn’t stop. The shop stands for community, education and doing anything possible to help people grow. It’s not just about haircuts. It’s about making the neighborhood better.
On 27th Street, Nathan sees a lot of room for improvement. But his shop is part of that change. It brings people together, no matter what your race or sexuality is. He says the idea is rooted in what Martin Luther King Jr. stood for: unity.
Inside the shop, you can see his vision. Brick walls and a basketball theme all around. There are jerseys, a hoop, even balloons for kids. Basketball is something everyone can connect over, it doesn’t matter your background. It teaches teamwork and brings people together.
But what really matters in the shop is the conversations. Especially in the Black community, barbershops are where real talks happen, Nathan told me. People talk about life, goals, sports, relationships, and even things like money and financial literacy, stuff that doesn’t always get talked about at home.
Nathan gives a shoutout to G from another shop he used to watch. He learned a lot just by observing and figuring out what he wanted for himself.
One of the biggest things he’s learned is patience. As his grandma used to say, “If I hold my peace now, and let the lord fight my battles for me, victory shall me mine ”. That mindset keeps him going, even when things are slow. He also believes in staying positive and reminding people that they can do it if they really want to. Sometimes, you just have to wait your turn.
Nathan is big on giving back too. He’s done back to school giveaways, handed out supplies, and even provided free haircuts at homeless shelters. A lot of it comes out of his own pocket, but he promotes it on social media to help more people and hopefully partner with bigger organizations in the future.
Kids are his main priority. He knows how important it is for them to feel confident going to school. Something as simple as a haircut can make a big difference, no kid should feel embarrassed or get bullied because of how they look.
He’s also creating something different with a membership: massage chairs, free coffee, WiFi, and games. It’s a place where people can relax, network, and even give single moms a break while their kids get a haircut. Also there is a discount for Marquette students!
At the end of the day, this barbershop is more than a business. It’s a space for unity, growth, and real connection. And Nathan is just getting started.
Click Here For Ballers Club Website
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Click Here For Baller Club Facebook
