Summary
Overview
Work History
Skills
References
Timeline
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Derek Brown

Los Angeles,CA

Summary

Dedicated and results-driven basketball coach with over 25 years of experience in program management, player development, and mentoring athletes at high school, college, and professional levels. Successfully developed and coached over 50 players who received college scholarships and guided numerous athletes to professional leagues, including the NBA. Skilled in designing dynamic training programs that foster athletic growth, practical skills, and player motivation. Proven leader with a commitment to building supportive, growth-oriented team environments. Mentored by renowned experts, including Tim Grgurich (NBA Player Development) and Larry Brown (NBA Head Coach).

Overview

27
27
years of professional experience

Work History

Basketball Skills Program Director and Head Coach

School of Skills (SOS), HAX, Next Level
03.2002 - Current
  • Founded and directed youth basketball programs with 250+ monthly players across 9U-17U
  • Generated $40K monthly income through skills training, group training, team practices, and memberships
  • Managed a staff of 14 coaches, overseeing hiring, training, mentorship, and payroll
  • Notably, 8 coaches went on to establish their own programs nationally, showcasing strong developmental leadership
  • Standardized practice schedules, workouts, and training systems, collaborating cross-functionally with payroll departments for tracking hours, overtime, expenses, and stipends
  • Organized 8-12 week skills clinics and annual combines, resulting in a 20% increase in monthly memberships
  • Led specialized clinics at notable camps, including Magic Johnson Camp, Lamar Odom Camp, and Luke Walton Camp, emphasizing foundational and advanced skills for youth athletes
  • Directed half-time shows at prominent events (Lakers, Clippers, UCLA), contributing to community engagement and visibility for youth programs

AAU Programs Coach & Individual Trainer

HoopMasters, Compton Magic, HAX, School of Skills (SOS)
01.1998 - Current
  • Trained athletes across high school, college, and professional levels, including NBA players such as Devean George, Ryan Hollins, Kareem Rush, and DeMarre Carroll, utilizing individualized drills to improve agility, shooting accuracy, and strategic gameplay
  • Coached over 50 players who received scholarships, creating a structured pathway for athletes to advance to college, overseas leagues and the NBA
  • Scholarships for athletes coached included schools in the following conferences: Big West, Mountain West, Big 12, Big Ten, Sunbelt, MAC, Pac-12, Patriot, Ivy, SEC, Southland, SWAC, WAC and WCC
  • Conducted clinics and camps across multiple states, including California, Nevada, Florida, and North Carolina, to broaden youth access to advanced basketball training

Program Co-Founder and Director

School of Skills (SOS)
07.2000 - 10.2012
  • Co-Founded and directed the School of Skills (SOS), a youth basketball program providing structured, bi-weekly skill-building sessions and competitive travel teams for ages 6-17 across the West Coast
  • Created a comprehensive curriculum focusing on core skills such as dribbling, shooting, defense, and game strategy, enabling athletes to build strong foundations and progress to advanced levels
  • Managed multiple travel teams competing in regional tournaments, establishing SOS as a respected program that provided significant exposure and growth opportunities for players
  • Designed the SOS logo and merchandise to build a strong, recognizable brand, instilling team pride and creating an additional revenue stream
  • Conducted regular parent consultations to update on athlete progress, building strong family support and trust within the program community
  • Emphasized character development, resilience, and teamwork, creating a supportive environment where athletes set and achieved personal growth goals
  • Oversaw all operational aspects including scheduling, budgeting, tournament organization, and staff management, hiring and mentoring coaches to maintain program quality
  • Many former staff went on to establish their own programs, extending SOS's influence nationwide

Assistant Basketball Coach

Mira Costa High School, John Muir High School, Pasadena Community College (PCC)
  • Collaborated with head coaches to develop and lead practice sessions focused on skill-building, conditioning, and game strategy
  • Tailored drills to improve shooting, ball handling, defensive techniques, and game endurance
  • Assisted in scouting opponents and developing game plans, focusing on defensive matchups, offensive play execution, and strategic adjustments during games to enhance team performance
  • Worked closely with individual players to identify and target areas for improvement, including shooting accuracy, leadership, ball handling, defensive skills, and mental focus
  • Provided ongoing mentorship, fostering discipline and teamwork, which contributed to player progression to collegiate programs
  • Conducted film reviews and post-game analysis with players to highlight strengths and address weaknesses
  • Acted as a key liaison between players and the head coach, providing guidance and support to foster a positive team environment
  • Helped maintain player morale, encourage accountability, and build a culture of respect and commitment

Skills

  • Basketball Program Development & Management
  • Player Development Across All Levels
  • Team Leadership and Staff Development
  • Game Strategy and Tactical Analysis
  • Youth Mentorship and Character Building
  • Event and Tournament Coordination
  • Brand Development and Marketing
  • First Aid and CPR Certified

References

Available upon request.

Timeline

Basketball Skills Program Director and Head Coach

School of Skills (SOS), HAX, Next Level
03.2002 - Current

Program Co-Founder and Director

School of Skills (SOS)
07.2000 - 10.2012

AAU Programs Coach & Individual Trainer

HoopMasters, Compton Magic, HAX, School of Skills (SOS)
01.1998 - Current

Assistant Basketball Coach

Mira Costa High School, John Muir High School, Pasadena Community College (PCC)
Derek Brown