The Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Coach of the Year award celebrates two categories of coaches: Community and Scholastic. The Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA and Positive Coaching Alliance are proud to highlight coaches nominated by various NBA, WNBA, and NBA G League teams for consideration for this year’s national awards. Please view the nominees tabs to learn more about these incredible coaches!
- 2026 Community Nominees
The following individuals have been recognized by various NBA, WNBA, and NBA G League teams for their dedication and influence in their local youth basketball communities in 2025-26.
Martinez Johnson is the head coach of the BlazeSports Jr. Hawks wheelchair basketball program in Atlanta, Georgia — a team sponsored by the Atlanta Hawks. A Gwinnett County native living with cerebral palsy, Martinez discovered wheelchair basketball at age 14 through BlazeSports America and went on to compete at the University of Illinois, where he earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree. He returned home to coach the next generation of athletes who share his experience, bringing the same high-performance mindset he developed at the collegiate level to young players with physical disabilities across the Atlanta community. In addition to his coaching duties, Martinez plays a central role in the annual Big Peach Slam Jam — the Hawks-sponsored national youth wheelchair basketball tournament. He was honored with the Outstanding Alumni of the Year award at BlazeSports’ 2023 Triumph of the Human Spirit Awards Gala. Martinez works professionally as a senior human resources analyst and co-hosts the PUSH Podcast on wheelchair basketball, which was named a finalist for an iHeart Radio award.
Mike is a dedicated and passionate leader committed to developing student-athletes both on and off the court. Over the course of his coaching career, Mike has consistently emphasized player development, creating an environment where athletes can build confidence, improve their skills, and learn valuable life lessons through the game of basketball. Known for his positive energy, attention to detail, and ability to connect with players, Mike has earned the respect of athletes, families, and the broader community. Beyond wins and losses, Mike measures success by the lasting impact made on players and athletes. Mike is helping shape them into disciplined, confident, and respectful individuals prepared for success in all areas of life.
Gabriella (Gaby) Reyes is a native New Yorker and NY Liberty super fan and has been playing basketball since a young age. Coaching youth sports has been life changing as she loves helping kids learn and grow, not only as athletes, but also as leaders and young adults!
Christian Pollard is a dedicated basketball coach committed to developing young athletes both on and off the court. With a strong focus on character, leadership, and personal growth, he strives to prepare his players for success in all areas of life. Known for his mentorship and community involvement, Pollard has built a program centered on respect, discipline, and opportunity, helping shape the next generation of leaders.
Makenzie joins the Chicago Sky Basketball Academy staff with over a decade of coaching experience ranging from ages 5-18. As a coach, her #1 goal is to help her players develop a lifelong love for the game while also learning the fundamental and team skills necessary for each to reach their fullest playing potential. Makenzie played collegiate basketball at the Division III level for Christopher Newport University, where she helped CNU reach the NCAA Final Four and clinch the Capital Athletic Conference championship in 2017. The Captains also reached the NCAA Sweet Sixteen in 2016 and 2018. Makenzie received CAC First Team All-Conference, VaSID Second Team All-State and CAC Second Team All-Conference accolades throughout her career. A recent transplant to Chicago, Makenzie works full-time as a strategic consultant in the sports & entertainment industry and is excited to bring her passion, tenacity and energy to the CSBA family to continue building the next generation of women’s basketball.
Verion “Coach V” Keller is the founding head coach of the Solar Prep Trailblazers middle school girls basketball program in Dallas, Texas. A dedicated volunteer, he built the school’s first competitive team from the ground up, leading a group of mostly first‑time and developing players with a strong emphasis on fundamentals, effort, and confidence. Coach V coaches with a “Team Over Me” philosophy, using basketball as a platform to teach accountability, resilience, leadership, and empathy. He is deeply committed to developing the whole athlete and creating a positive, structured environment where young women feel supported, challenged, and empowered to grow on and off the court. Beyond the season, Coach V is building a long‑term girls basketball pipeline at Solar Prep by introducing the game at younger grade levels. Originally from the Detroit suburbs, he was a multi‑sport athlete who competed through college before transitioning into coaching. Today, he brings that same passion to mentoring youth—especially meaningful as he coaches alongside his 12‑year‑old daughter, a member of the Trailblazers. For Coach V, basketball is a lifelong tool for building character, confidence, and community.
Jason is a husband, father, son and terrific human being who happens to be a great coach!
With over 20 years of coaching experience, Coach Jenn-Jenn uses basketball as a powerful tool for connection, confidence, and community. She is a Clinician for the Aces Academy (Jr. WNBA), Director of Girls Youth Basketball (GYB), Founder and Executive Director of Grand Basketball Training (nonprofit) in partnership with OB Athletics, and Head Coach at The Meadows School. Her impact spans generations, including leading the 80+ Senior National Olympic Team, the Golden Girls, as Head Coach. Her programs are rooted in kindness, acceptance, and belonging to ensure that everyone from a shy first-time second grade player to an 80-year-old competitor feels valued, supported, and empowered to grow into their best self.
Ms. Jaelyn from the BGCMLA Venice Clubhouse. Attached is a letter expressing my reasons why she would be an excellent candidate for the Jr. NBA Coach of the Year and below are bulleted highlights: Sports Lead at BGCMLA Venice Clubhouse; expands access to sports and fitness while building a culture of teamwork, discipline, pride, and inclusion across all grade levels Uses sports to build confidence, resilience, and accountability by coaching with encouragement, structure, and positive reinforcement—creating a safe environment where youth show up consistently, step into leadership roles (e.g., stretch leaders), and feel empowered to try, fail, and grow. Integrates sports psychology and mentorship to build self-regulation, emotional awareness, and positive decision-making on and off the court, demonstrated through supporting youth with behavioral challenges to develop self-control, seek help, and re-engage positively across programs (members have been able to find a safe space in our sports program) Identifies program gaps and expands opportunities despite limited space by creating inclusive, team-based experiences—such as a middle school March Madness–style event where youth led and coordinated their own teams—which help members feel seen, valued, and connected while strengthening leadership, respect, and peer relationships. Serves as a relatable role model as a former athlete and HBCU alumna, sparking interest in college and career pathways through real conversations with teens about her journey and future opportunities Goes above and beyond to create engaging, meaningful sports experiences that strengthen youth leadership, confidence, and overall Club community.
Lindsay is a caring, selfless and passionate coach who uses her love and knowledge of basketball to better the athletes at HARD#1. The positive role model she is allows young female athletes to see opportunity and opens doors for them in sport.
With over 17 years of experience coaching youth in Astoria, Queens, Coach Kokkinos has dedicated his career to creating inclusive, high-impact athletic programs for local families. As Volunteer Athletic Director and Parish Athletic Representative at Immaculate Conception CYO, Coach Kokkinos leads more than 400 children each year from diverse backgrounds and has built the largest girls’ basketball program in the CYO, serving over 120 participants. Coach Jerry also coaches at the Young Women’s Leadership School of Astoria, further expanding opportunities for young athletes. The program offers instructional training for children ages 4–6 to build foundational skills and confidence, while fee waivers and volunteer exchanges help eliminate financial barriers to participation. Using basketball as a vehicle, Coach Jerry teaches teamwork, resilience, leadership, and essential life skills.
Coach Cepero is a dedicated athletic director and multi-sport coach committed to developing student-athletes both on and off the court. He coaches basketball, track, and cross-country, emphasizing skill development, teamwork, and personal growth. Beyond athletics, he volunteers with the Florida Special Olympics, promoting inclusion and confidence for athletes with intellectual disabilities. Known for his leadership, professionalism, and focus on character development, Coach Cepero inspires students to excel academically, athletically, and personally, fostering a culture of respect, resilience, and community engagement.
Rev. Stan “Groovie” Laws, Jr. is a cornerstone of the Philadelphia community, dedicated to transforming lives through mentorship, athletics, and faith. Since June 2003, Stan has operated a grassroots nonprofit organization directly from his home in North Philadelphia, serving as a vital resource for youth and families across the city and its surrounding areas. His impact is most visible through his annual summer basketball camps, which have provided a safe, affordable, and enriching environment for youth ages 6–14 for the past 23 years. In 2021, Stan expanded his reach by founding the Philadelphia All-American Game (PAAG). This premier event honors talented high school seniors from Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey who may not receive national media attention but possess elite skill and character. The prestige of the PAAG is reflected in its alumni, including current Philadelphia 76er Justin Edwards, a member of the 2024 Senior Boys Team. His programs have also garnered respect from the highest levels of the sport, featuring guest speakers from the 76ers, who has supported the camps’ opening days in recent years. A True Servant Leader: Operating with virtually no outside resources, Rev. Laws fuels his mission through personal sacrifice, self-funding, and community-driven fundraising. He provides a 24-hour crisis response hotline, family counseling, and college access assistance offering a lifeline to those in need at any hour. A proud citizen and servant of the City of Brotherly Love, Rev. Stan “Groovie” Laws, Jr. lives and leads by a simple, profound philosophy: “I’m Blessed to be a Blessing.”
Diane Alber has had a passion for art since she held her first crayon at age two, which inspired her to subsequently earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts from Arizona State University. She is a wife and a mother of two young energetic children who love books. She became inspired to start writing and illustrating books because she saw a need for a book that inspired art and creativity in children. Her series later evolved to cover topics that are hard to explain to children, like emotions, actions, and life skills. She hopes that her entire series inspires creativity and encourages children to become the best that they can be!
Coach Dony Wilcher is a basketball development leader, mentor, and community advocate with more than 25 years of experience using sport to transform lives. As the Founder of Youth United PNW, a Black-owned, family-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in Portland, Oregon, he has built a holistic youth development model that integrates athletics, academics, and whole health support for youth ages 5–14 and beyond. Through his leadership, more than 510 families across Oregon, Washington, and California have received support, with programs that include basketball training, STEM-focused academic tutoring, mentorship, and access to essential resources such as food, clothing, housing, and healthcare services. His “Finish Line” philosophy emphasizes character, accountability, and long-term success both on and off the court. Coach Dony’s impact includes helping develop 82 Division I athletes, 43 Division II athletes, 21 All-Americans, and 11 NBA/WNBA players, while also building generational leadership—90 former players have become coaches, 45 have returned to work alongside him, and 20 have founded their own nonprofits. Known for coaching both boys and girls with equal standards of excellence, Coach Dony uses basketball as a vehicle to build confident, resilient leaders and strengthen the communities he serves.
Aaron Redpath is a dedicated youth basketball coach and the founder of PDM Basketball, where he has built a strong reputation for developing athletes both on and off the court. With a passion for mentorship and community impact, Aaron focuses on teaching fundamentals, confidence, and leadership through the game of basketball. His player-first approach emphasizes character, accountability, and personal growth, helping young athletes become not only better players but also positive contributors to their communities.
Respected member of the community and great mentor of the youth.
A dedicated basketball educator, who views the game as more than a sport; a platform to build character, nurture potential, and inspire the next generation to live with purpose.
Debra is a Junior Jazz volunteer coach who is on her 8th season working with 7th-8th grade girls. Her family is based in a rural town in Northern Utah that runs smaller athletic programs, and she’s stepped up 8 years in a row to coach and lead a girls team. Her passions include recreational activities, fitness, and being a wife and mom. She values the importance of building her team up, encourages friendships between players, challenges their skills, trains former players to become referees, and pushes them to grow on and off the court. Debra leads her team by example in her decisions to coach and lift people up.
Thea Littlepage is a proud Washington, DC native who completed her Master’s degree in Urban Counseling at Trinity University. A talented basketball player who played at Delaware State University, contributing to her team’s Conference Championship win and NCAA tournament run. Now devoted to coaching, Thea serves as a Jr. NBA coach for both the Washington Wizards and the Mystics, and recently joined Coach Across America as a basketball coach. Her goal is to inspire girls to participate in sports and develop life skills they can carry into adulthood.
- 2026 Scholastic Nominees
The following individuals have been recognized by various NBA, WNBA, and NBA G League teams for their dedication and influence in their local youth basketball communities in 2025-26.
Lorenzo Bailey is a Physical Education teacher, Head Boys Basketball Coach, and multi-sport coach at Elite Scholars Academy in Jonesboro, Georgia, with 17 years of coaching experience across Clayton and Henry Counties. A graduate of Millsaps College — where he maintained a 3.9 GPA and was recognized as a scholar, leader, and athlete — Bailey has built a career defined by transforming struggling programs into winning cultures and developing young people of strong character. At Luella High School, he rebuilt a 0–50 program into a state playoff contender in three years. At Elite Scholars Academy, he took a 0–31 program to a 9–5 record and the school’s first-ever county playoff appearance. Beyond basketball, he pioneered the school’s girls flag football program, coaches track and field and cross country, gives free haircuts to those in need, and has twice traveled to Africa on mission trips with Mission First to teach basketball and English to youth in underserved communities. He was named the 2025–2026 Teacher of the Year at Elite Scholars Academy and previously earned Coach of the Year honors at Luella High School.
Stephanie Blagaich is the current varsity head girls basketball coach at Sullivan High School in Rogers Park Chicago. Coach Blagaich has been coaching high school girls basketball for 6 years, the last 3 years at Sullivan. Since taking over the Sullivan program, the team has grown significantly under her leadership and during her first year as head coach the team made city playoffs for the first time in 5 years ranking competitively with the others in their conference. She grew up playing every team sport before focusing on basketball in high school where she played for her school and an AAU team. During the basketball off-season, she has been coaching high school girls and boys volleyball for 5 years and was chosen as an inaugural All State Coach in Illinois for junior high girls volleyball – a position that she’s held for 2 seasons so far. Coach Blagaich was named a Chicago Public League All Conference Coach in the Fall of 2025. Lastly, she supports the local YMCA on weekends coaching elementary school basketball skills, a basketball league, and junior high volleyball. Being part of the Chicago Bulls Girls Coaching Cohort has been a highlight of her coaching career and she looks forward to continuing to build a strong coaching foundation while empowering other women in sport.
With eight years of experience as a former college athlete, 8th-grade teacher, and skills trainer, this coach operates with a clear mission: to build great players and even better women. They bring that same relentless energy to the Dallas Mavericks Academy, where they mentor the next generation through clinics and the game-night Ball Kid program. Whether working as a personal trainer at Crunch Fitness or conducting specialized skills training on the court, this coach ensures every athlete develops the discipline and resilience needed to lead. Having coached at every level, they do not just teach the game they provide a blueprint for future CEOs and community leaders.
Coach Schulz is an Arkansas native turned Texas coach & teacher. She’s been surviving the Texas heat for 10 years now, all of which have been spent at Bedford Junior High, coaching volleyball, basketball, and track. For five years, she coached the 7th grade team and 9th grade team. She has always had a passion for competition, teamwork, and she is committed to giving back what was given to her through sports. She received the Bedford Junior High Teacher of the Year award in 2022 and currently is coaching 8th grade basketball. Off the court, she loves anything that involves her wife and pup Georgia, whether that’s traveling, serving at church, finding the next best TexMex patio, or anything sports related.
She is the daughter of Sampson Holmes and Juanita Logan and began playing basketball at the age of eight. A psychology major at UNLV, she developed a deep understanding of both the mental and physical aspects of the game, modeling her playing style after Kobe Bryant. An accomplished multi‑sport athlete in her youth, she also competed in volleyball and track and field. Her proudest accomplishment is reaching the WNBA as an undrafted free agent, launching a professional career that has spanned 18 seasons. She has competed at the highest levels both stateside in the WNBA and Athletes Unlimited, as well as internationally in countries including Turkey, Italy, and Israel. Off the court, she works as a senior associate at World Financial Group and enjoys spending time outdoors, fishing, and listening to old‑school music.
Michael Maney is a Library Media Specialist and multi-sport coach at West Middle School in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. His connection to basketball and its power to shape young lives traces back to 1977, when as a teenager he attended a Marquette University basketball camp, roomed with a fellow camper who would go on to become NBA star and Bucks head coach Doc Rivers. At that camp, he was first introduced to John Wooden’s Pyramid of Success – a framework that has guided his coaching philosophy ever since. Today, Michael coaches’ boys’ basketball, girls’ basketball, volleyball, and track, bringing the same commitment to character, discipline, and growth to every sport and every athlete in his program. He is known throughout his school community for holding athletes to high standards of accountability, sportsmanship, and mutual respect, preparing them not just for success on the court, but for success in life.
Coach Bradley is the Athletic Director and Coach at Pierre A. Capdau S.T.E.A.M School, bringing a strong commitment to student-athlete development both on and off the court. Throughout his career, he has developed athletes who have gone on to compete at universities across the state. He is dedicated to pushing every athlete to reach their full potential, regardless of their starting point. He prides himself on creating a family-oriented culture built on accountability, hard work, and genuine care for each student-athlete’s success.
Ms. Minelle Ellerbe has been a dedicated member of the South Seminole Academy community for the past nine years, serving as a teacher, coach, and currently as the Lead Certified School Counselor. She is a retired U.S. Army Veteran with 27 years of honorable service, bringing the discipline, leadership, and resilience of her military background into everything she does. In addition to her school-based work, Ms. Ellerbe serves as a Mental Health Counselor in private practice, supporting individuals and families with professionalism and compassion. She holds a Master’s Degree in Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a minor in School Counseling, as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Military Science. Ms. Ellerbe is the proud mother of three amazing children and grandmother to two adorable grandchildren. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys cruising, traveling, dancing, trying new experiences, watching and playing sports, shopping, and spending time with family and friends. Her diverse background, commitment to service, and passion for student success continue to make her an invaluable leader and role model in the South Seminole Academy community.
Frank Lomeli is a dedicated educator, coach, and community leader with more than 20 years of experience mentoring youth through academics and athletics. Raised in Tolleson, Frank understands firsthand the power of sports to open doors and transform lives, an experience that continues to shape his work today. As the proud principal of Academia del Pueblo, he has built a culture where students are recognized as student-athletes first, with a strong emphasis on academic success, character development, and personal growth. After a lengthy career in public service, he joined Academia del Pueblo School in 2014 as a middle school and PE teacher before rising to his current role as principal. In addition to his professional career as a public servant, he has served our community as a youth sports coach for more than 20 years, coaching baseball, basketball, softball and various other youth sports programs. In addition to his role as principal, Frank has been instrumental in developing and leading the Literacy Through Basketball program, providing meaningful opportunities for students from kindergarten through 8th grade to grow both on and off the court. Known for his belief that coaching never stops, Frank mentors students not only during games and practices, but in everyday life, instilling values of discipline, resilience, respect, and leadership. His commitment to fostering positive relationships, supporting mental well-being, and creating inclusive opportunities has made a lasting impact on students, families, and the broader community. Through his leadership, Frank continues to empower young people to succeed in the classroom, in sports, and in life, serving as a role model and champion for future generations. Although Frank has served as a public servant for more than 20 years, he considers his most important job to that of a child advocate. His passions are his faith, family, music and coaching.
KJ is the head coach at Hunter High School and serves as the Bantam Coordinator, where he is committed to creating opportunities for youth through basketball. In partnership with the Utah Jazz, he played a key role in launching the Bantam program, helping expand access to the game for athletes of all backgrounds. While building his high school program in a challenging area, he simultaneously coached four Bantam teams—demonstrating exceptional dedication to player development and his community.
My coaching journey started in 2015, I was fresh out of Undergrad from Delaware State University where I went to play basketball but was derailed due to injuries. My cousin came home with a form saying his school needed a middle school basketball coach so I applied and took the Job. In 2018 the school closed the middle side but we won a city title that year going 17-1. In 2018 I took a Job at Bell High School as an assistant Varsity coach and held that for 5 years. I have coached AAU since 2016. I started Working at Harriet Tubman Elementary school as a Dean of Students in 2017 and since then I have coached the school team here of 4th and 5th graders and also I do clinics for the younger kids so they will be ready for the team once they get into 4th and 5th grade. I also coach my son for AAU a 2nd grade team who just won a 2nd grade winter league championship. I’m at the age now where a few of my kids are now playing college ball and its amazing because I look at old videos of when they couldn’t dribble and smile at how far they have come.
- 2025 Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Coach of the Year Winners
Here are the 2025 Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Coach of the Year Winners!
- Executive Voting Panel
Our Executive Voting Panel is comprised of previous National Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Coach of the Year winners along with NBA coaches and legends, and individuals from the NBA league office and Positive Coaching Alliance. This panel is tasked with providing guidance on the selection of our Coach of the Year finalists and national winner based on their respective basketball knowledge and experience.
Alex Anaya began his basketball career by playing at his local public school in Pilsen, Benito Juarez High School from 1989-1992. He then received a financial aid package to play college basketball at Truman college, one of the city colleges of Chicago. After playing for Truman, coach Anaya’s basketball career took him to play in Latino basketball tournaments throughout the United States. Coach Anaya played in these Latin American tournaments for 15 years winning several tournaments in including the highly competitive San Antonio Texas tournament and winning several MVP awards during this time. Once Coach Anaya became a father, he focused on his two children. However, he could never keep himself away from the game he loved so he became the varsity basketball coach at Crito Rey High School for 3 years, 2007-2009. Once his children became old enough to play he focused on teaching basketball to them and community friends. In 2011, Coach Anaya founded and is currently the Executive Director of a not-for profit organization called ABC-Pilsen. ABC-Pilsen has three pillars which he focuses on Academics, Basketball & Community Service. This organization has grown to over 150 participants year-round. The goal of this organization is to teach life lessons & make Pilsen a better place to live through the game he’s passionate about, BASKETBALL! Coach Anaya is also a member of the Chicago Bulls Coaching Girls Cohort for the 2022-23 season. Alex was nominated by the Chicago Bulls for the 2023 Coach of the Year and won the National Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Community Coach of the Year.
A former D1 gager, Coach Berran has exceled the past decade as a youth basketball coach and administrator in the Eagan (MN) Athletic Association (EAA). She serves the association President managing all in-house and traveling basketball programs for over 1,000 athletes. Coach Berran’s true philosophy includes, that by being on a team you learn not only the sport, but more importantly life skills that you can carry with you forever. Her success is seen through her on court success, and her off-court positive impact is realized through each of her players’ lives. Carrie was nominated by the Minnesota Timberwolves for the 2017 Coach of the Year and won the National Jr. NBA Coach of the Year.
Growing up in inner city Providence, Kash Cannon used the game of basketball to overcome personal adversity and become the first person in her family to go to college. After a standout career at Northeastern University, Kash chose to pay-it-forward and give back to other girls from her community by providing them the same opportunities she was given through the power of sport. As the Program Director at G3 (Getting Girls in the Game), Kash delivers a youth basketball curriculum that focuses on health and wellness, goal setting and female empowerment. Kash’s program includes a mentoring partnership with female Boston Police officers, college readiness activities, hands-on cooking classes, tutoring from local college athletes and access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Open to all Boston inner city girls, Kash also builds relationships with the mothers of her girls, leveraging the whole family unit when trying to increase healthy outcomes. Kash was nominated by the Boston Celtics for the 2018 Coach of the Year and won the National Jr. NBA Coach of the Year.
Jason is in his 20th year as president of Big Apple Basketball (BAB). He’s responsible for all aspects of its daily operations, including running its basketball training, high school showcases, scholarship games, mentoring programs, academic seminars, consultation and referral services, along with other community events focused on helping student-athletes and families. Jason graduated from St. Michael’s College with a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. He was a four-year starter on the men’s basketball team and inducted into the St. Michael’s College Athletic Hall of Fame in 2009. Last spring, he was inducted into the Cheshire Academy Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2019, Curry was recognized as the Junior Knicks Coach of the Year, and named the National Jr. NBA Coach of the Year.
Charles Lee is the Head Coach of the Charlotte Hornets. On May 9, 2024, Lee became the 12th Head Coach* in Hornets history. In his NBA career, Lee has spent time with the Atlanta Hawks (2014-2018), the Milwaukee Bucks (2018-2023), as well as the Boston Celtics (2023-2024). Coach Lee helped lead each organization to the playoffs, including an NBA Championship with the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2020-2021 NBA Season. While with the Hawks, Coach helped led the team to three straight playoff seasons, including a 60-win 2014-2015 NBA Season. In the 2023-2024 NBA Season, coach helped led the top-seed, 64-win Boston Celtics to an NBA Championship, the organization’s first since 2008. Charles Lee was born on November 11, 1984, in Washington, D.C. Lee attended Quince Orchard High School in Gaithersburg, Maryland and went on to play collegiately at Bucknell University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in business management. After winning Patriot Player of the Year in 2006, Coach had a four-year professional playing career with stops in Israel, Belgium, and Germany. Coach Lee and his wife Lindsey, have three children (Corinne, Vivian, & Josephine).
Coach Juanesha Maxfield, from Dime Box, TX, has transformed her passion for basketball into a driving force for community and youth development. Establishing a basketball program that teaches not just the sport but also leadership and teamwork, she’s empowering young athletes from Dime Box and surrounding rural areas. Her dedication to providing opportunities in underserved regions has made her a respected community leader. Through her work, Coach Maxfield demonstrates the transformative impact of sports, inspiring the next generation to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams with determination. Juanesha was nominated by the San Antonio/Austin Spurs for the 2024 Coach of the Year and won the National Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Community Coach of the Year.
Meia Netter is a highly experienced and dedicated coach with over 10 years of coaching experience. Meia played college basketball at Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Texas (2005 -2008). During her collegiate career she was awarded State Farm All-American, National Player of the Year (2008), ASC Conference MVP, 2-time ASC Female Athlete of the year, and 2nd all-time leading scorer in HPU history. After playing collegiate ball, Meia went on to coach as a graduate assistant at Wayne State Colle in Wayne Nebraska, winning a conference championship in 2010. She then went on to be an assistant coach at Howard Payne University for 1 year, before becoming head coach for 5 years. Meia is currently the head coach at Southwest High School located in Fort Worth, TX where she has coached for the past 2 years. With a passion for helping students reach their full potential, Meia Netter has successfully guided numerous athletes to achieve their goals, both on and off the court. Known for her motivational approach and personalized coaching style, she excels in fostering a positive and supportive environment for her athletes to thrive. Whether its improving athletes’ performance, building confidence, or overcoming obstacles Meia Netter is dedicated to empowering her athletes to unlock their true capabilities and achieve success. Meia was nominated by the Dallas Wings for the 2024 Coach of the Year and won the National Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Scholastic Coach of the Year.
Jason Sacks is PCA’s Chief Development Officer, co-leading the organization and overseeing all fundraising activities, as well as PCA’s partnerships with professional sports leagues, national governing bodies and national youth sports organizations. Prior to joining PCA, Jason worked in the Basketball Operations Department for the New York Knicks during the 2005-06 season. He served as an assistant coach for the Men’s Basketball Team at New York University, while completing his Masters Degree in Sports Management. His other previous coaching stops include Egg Harbor Township High School (NJ) and Perspectives Charter High School (Chicago). With an undergraduate degree from Syracuse University, Jason now serves as an adjunct instructor for Northwestern University’s Masters of Sports Administration Program.
Alesha was born in Brooklyn, NY but was raised in Athens, GA. Her love for basketball began early when her mother and father introduced her to the game. She grew up playing basketball with her brothers and the other boys in her neighborhood until she was old enough to play on an organized team. Her work ethic and skill earned her a scholarship to play Division I basketball at Mercer University, but after an almost career-ending injury, Alesha would later transfer to Xavier University of Louisiana (an HBCU in New Orleans) where she would finish her collegiate basketball career with two conference championships and a B.A in Political Science in 2016. After graduation, Alesha turned down the opportunity to play professional basketball overseas because of her strong commitment to social justice. She instead decided to move to Brooklyn, NY and began her career as a Community Organizer at one of the largest nonprofits in Brooklyn, Brooklyn Community Services, where she worked in partnership with various mental health facilities, homeless shelters, community centers, and after school programs in some of Brooklyn’s most under resourced neighborhoods with the goal of creating a better Brooklyn for all. After three years as an organizer, Alesha returned to sports as a Program Manager at Up2Us Sports. At Up2Us, Alesha helped train and support over 100 coaches on best practices in mentorship and sports-based youth development. Alesha completed her M.A at New York University in Steinhardt’s Educational Leadership, Politics, and Advocacy program. She is dedicated to the intersection of sport and social justice and centers the transformational power that sport has to build and maintain community. She is proud to bring her experience in her work as Director of PeacePlayers Brooklyn. Alesha was nominated by the New York Liberty for the 2023 Coach of the Year and won the National Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Scholastic Coach of the Year.
Coach Christina Wellendorf is an English teacher by day, basketball coach by afternoon and evening, and master’s counseling student at night at John C. Fremont PDMS & Academy of Medical Sciences. She has coached for six years and taught for nine years. She is a mentor to her peers and current and former students and players, assisting them with filling out applications, writing letters to colleges, and supporting families during loss the loss of a loved one with food. Christina was nominated by the Las Vegas Aces for the 2022 Coach of the Year and won the National Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Coach of the Year.
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