Building More Than Basketball Players

Mark Scharnberg, a 1997 Cedarville University graduate, has built successful businesses throughout his career. Today, one of the projects closest to his heart isn't measured by profits; it's measured by the impact on the lives of young athletes.

On the Cedarville Stories podcast, Mark describes Iowa United as more than a basketball prep school. He envisions it as a place where gifted young athletes receive the kind of coaching and development that prepares them for the changing world of college basketball. Competing in the EYBL Scholastic league places Iowa United alongside the nation's top programs, giving students an opportunity to hone their skills alongside elite competition.

What Makes Iowa United Different From Other Basketball Prep Schools?

For Mark, however, the scoreboard has never been the whole story.

He wants every athlete who joins Iowa United to leave as a stronger player. Even more, he wants each young man to become a person of character who understands what it means to follow Christ.

How Faith and Mentorship Shape Student-Athletes at Iowa United

That mission begins with presence. Mark and his wife, Janet, have moved into the Iowa United facility so they can share daily life with the students. They eat meals together, celebrate victories, work through disappointments, and have countless conversations that would never fit into a practice schedule. They open their home, their time, and their lives because they believe lasting influence grows out of genuine relationships.

Mark has watched those relationships change young men. Some arrive with remarkable athletic ability but need someone to believe in them. Others need patient guidance as they mature. As trust grows, attitudes begin to change, and confidence takes root. Mark has seen players leave Iowa United ready for high-level college basketball, yet he finds even greater joy when they leave with stronger character and a clearer understanding of faith.

Living together accelerates those relationships. By the time graduation arrives, many of the players feel like members of the Scharnbergs' extended family.

Building a Lasting Legacy Through Basketball and Discipleship

Saying goodbye is never easy, as every student feels like family. But Mark hopes those players will one day return to encourage the next generation, creating a cycle of investment that stretches far beyond basketball.

He also sees another future taking shape. Just as earlier generations of the Scharnberg family built businesses that became platforms for serving others, Mark hopes Iowa United will become a place where his own children can one day serve alongside him. His vision reaches well beyond wins and championships. He wants to build something that shapes lives for Christ and continues long after the final buzzer sounds.

About Cedarville University 

Cedarville University, an evangelical Christian institution in southwest Ohio, offers undergraduate and graduate residential and online programs across the arts, sciences and professional fields. With 7,265 students, it is among Ohio's largest private universities and is ranked among the nation's top five evangelical universities in the Wall Street Journal's 2026 Best Colleges rankings. Cedarville is also known for its vibrant Christian community, challenging academics, and high graduation and retention rates. More information is available at cedarville.edu.