FOUNDER
COACH CARLTON
Coach Carlton’s love for the game began on the basketball courts of Hybla Valley in Alexandria, Virginia, where he spent countless hours amongst friends playing, training, and supporting each other. As the basketball foundation was being laid, so were the life-long lessons in friendship, teamwork, and what it means to support the community.
Coach Carlton began coaching youth basketball in 2005. His first team started with just a few members of his church. Shortly before the end of his first season, the team doubled. Youth from the community were eager to join. This experience sparked a love of mentoring, teaching, and coaching basketball. Coach Carlton has never looked back.
The foundation that was laid for Coach Carlton back in Hybla Valley is the same foundation that he gives to his players. Not only does he use his passion for the game, teaching the fundamentals and basketball IQ, but Coach Carlton also acknowledges being a life-long learner himself.
COACH LAMAR
As a kid growing up, all Coach Lamar ever played was basketball. He played in recreational leagues, AAU leagues, YMCA, basketball camps, and adult leagues. Although he wanted to take his skills further, God had other plans for him at the time. That did not stop his determination and will to keep playing. As a student of the game, Coach Lamar felt a need to give back because of his love for basketball. He began training and coaching youth.
Coach Lamar coached AAU leagues and recreational leagues within the community. As a coach, he believed in teaching discipline, determination, character, confidence, fundamentals, and how to work with others as a team. His goal has always been to teach the game of basketball and show others how to enjoy the game. He wanted young learners to know it was not always about winning and dominating the sport, but also about learning and taking advantage of the moments of learning and that he will always be there to help the youth further their dreams as a basketball player.
COACH JAMIE
My first love in sports has always been basketball. However, it was my tennis skills that got me a scholarship to Catawba College. My first coaching experience was with tennis while in college. Once we had children, I was able to help coach their volleyball and basketball teams through multiple seasons, from kindergarten through high school levels. We are so glad we have discovered and connected with the Wildcats program and coaches Lamar, Carlton, and Kobe. They have contributed to my son Lincoln growing in his individual skills, but most of all in his work ethic and understanding of team sports and the level of work needed to make it not only on the court but also outside of the court.
COACH KOBY
I was first introduced to basketball at the age of 8 when I was put in a local church league by my parents. As soon as I stepped onto the court, I fell in love with the game of basketball. A love that I still hold onto til this day. After playing all four years of high school and receiving multiple offers to play college basketball, God had a slightly different plan for me. I am now in school to become an orthopedic surgeon. However, despite my schedule, I’ve always had a desire to share my basketball knowledge with the next generation. Meeting Coach Carlton and Coach Lamar has given me that opportunity.
Watching how they interacted and taught all their players inspired me to join the University City Wildcats. As a coach, I have been determined to teach each player accountability, moral integrity, courage, and what it means to truly understand the game of basketball. Through coaching, I strive to instill not only fundamental skills but also the discipline and mindset required to succeed both on and off the court. My belief is that basketball is more than just a game—it’s a tool for building character, resilience, and teamwork. My ultimate goal is to help each player reach their full potential, whether that’s in basketball or life.