The Attleboro Youth Basketball Association (AYBA) was founded in 1985-1986 by Tom Houle, with the help of Cliff Sherman, Bill Riley, and Fred Bartek. Its creation addressed the loss of middle school athletic programs due to Proposition 2½, which had eliminated a crucial feeder system for high school basketball.

Tom, a former Attleboro High School player, recognized the need for youth development in basketball. He initially supported the St. John's Program & Tournament, which evolved into a school district recreation program for 7th and 8th graders. This led to the official formation of the AYBA, which quickly expanded from a single gym to utilizing every gym in the school system, eventually serving grades 1-8. The AYBA would further its growth by joining the Metro West League, being one of the first towns to join. Under Houle's leadership, the program emphasized player development, fair play, and sportsmanship. 

The AYBA's success is attributed to Houle's dedication and the efforts of numerous volunteers. Many former players have returned to coach or enroll their children, demonstrating the program's lasting impact. Today, the AYBA serves approximately 1,000 children throughout the basketball season. They have not only been crucial in developing talent for Attleboro High's basketball teams, but have also helped produce quality individuals through their teachings of sportsmanship and teamwork.