Mikel Brown Jr. is solidifying his place as one of high school basketball’s top talents at DME Academy. In a game for the ages, DME Academy’s Boys National team went head-to-head with Dream City Christian, ranked #10 on MaxPreps and #14 on The Circuit, on Friday, Nov. 15. The battle lived up to its billing, with Mikel Brown Jr. delivering one of the most electrifying performances in DME history.
The game came down to the final possession, tied with just seconds left. With composure beyond his years, Mikel drained a buzzer-beater three-pointer to secure the win, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The final dagger was the exclamation point on a record-breaking night, with Mikel scoring an incredible 50 points—beating his own record while hitting eight three-pointers on the night.
The National Team carried their momentum into the following game, delivering a commanding 30-point victory. It was a total team effort, with standout performances across the board. Trey Simpson III led all scorers with 21 points, followed closely by Nathan Kirk with 20 and Matas Buteliauskas with 18. The win showcased the team’s depth and chemistry, setting a strong tone for the season ahead.
Daytona Grind Session Recap
Fast forward to the Daytona Grind Session, hosted at DME Academy from Nov. 22–24, and Mikel Brown Jr. continued to prove why he’s one of the best High School basketball players in the nation. In the first game of the event, Mikel led the charge with 29 points, setting the tone for another standout weekend.
Facing Royal Crown in the final matchup of the Grind Session, Mikel raised his game even further, pouring in 35 points to cap off the event.
The Boys National Team showed depth and determination throughout the session, with contributions from multiple players alongside Mikel’s brilliance. The momentum they’ve built early in the season continues to position them as one of the top teams in the country.If you’re ready to take your game to the next level, discover how DME Academy can provide the tools and environment to help you succeed on and off the court. Click here to get on our radar and to learn more.
From November 22–24, DME Academy in Daytona Beach will host the Grind Session, one of the premier showcases for high school basketball. This event features top-ranked teams from across the United States and Canada, bringing elite competition to the court.
The Grind Session is known for attracting powerhouse programs, and this year is no different. Teams from across the country, including a few from Canada, will compete in what promises to be a weekend of intense and highly skilled matchups. Fans can expect to see some of the most talented players in high school basketball square off, making this event a must-see for hoops enthusiasts.
The Grind Session provides a platform for young athletes to compete at the highest level and gain exposure. With scouts and recruiters in attendance, players will have the chance to prove themselves against top-tier opponents.DME Academy is excited to host this event and showcase the incredible talent these athletes bring to the game. Be sure to catch the action live in Daytona Beach from November 22–24 or live by tuning into Taranager Sports T.V.
Daytona, Fl. Congratulations to our very own DME Volleyball Varsity Players Juanita Hernandez and Mariana Castano! The talented duo has been called up to represent their home state of Antioquia in the upcoming national matches. The pair will depart on November 16, with matches scheduled to run from November 17-20.
A Prestigious Honor for Our Athletes
Juanita and Mariana have shown exceptional skill and commitment since joining DME this past August. Both players secured their spots on the national team prior to their arrival on campus, a testament to their dedication and hard work highlights the level of talent they bring to the court.
Head Coach Craig Legginer shared his thoughts on their achievement:
“Juanita and Mariana have earned this incredible opportunity through their relentless effort and passion for the game. We’re proud to see them represent their home country on a national stage and look forward to watching them shine.”
The Journey Ahead
As members of the class of 2026, both Hernandez and Castano have a bright future ahead of them at DME Academy and beyond. This international experience will be invaluable as they continue to develop their skills and showcase their talents on bigger stages.
Stay Tuned for Updates!
DME Academy will be following their journey closely, so stay tuned for updates on how you can watch and support our young stars. We’re confident they will represent both Antioquia and DME with pride!
Interested in taking your volleyball game further?
Click here to learn how DME Academy can help you sharpen your skills and reach your full potential.
Daytona, FL – DME Academy is proud to celebrate a momentous occasion as four of its student-athletes sign their Scholarship Agreement to Division I programs across the country. This Signing Day marks a significant milestone for DME, highlighting the talent, dedication, and hard work of its student-athletes. The four players making their commitments are:
•Trey Simpson lll, a talented player from Alabama, USA, competes with the DME Boys National Team and has signed to Murray State University. Trey’s first game in a DME uniform was at the Border League in Las Vegas, NV where he was named Player of the Game. Since then, he has continued to make his name known with multiple double figure games and notable highlights.
•Zaniah Zellous, from West Virginia, USA, will be a key player for the DME Girls National Team and has signed to East Carolina University. Although she has not played for DME yet, she brings a lot to the table and DME is excited to get her back on the court in December. She is the missing piece to what will make this team go far.
•Gabe Stewart, from Florida, USA, is a fierce competitor on the DME Boys Post Grad National Team and is signed to Indiana University Indianapolis. Gabe is in his fourth year at DME where he continues to excel on the court with many ‘Top Performance’ games in the books.
•Jordan Ford, from Florida, USA, will be a standout player for the DME Boys National Team and is signed to the University at Buffalo. Though Jordan is injured, he displayed his talents before the injury and DME is excited to get him back on the court.
These athletes have not only excelled on the court but have demonstrated exceptional character, discipline, and commitment to their academics. Their hard work at DME Academy has prepared them for the next chapter of their athletic and academic journeys, as they transition into the demanding world of NCAA Division I sports.
Dan Panaggio, Co-Founder of DME Academy, shared his pride in the athletes and the program’s growth:
“We’re extremely proud of these four athletes and their commitment to Division I basketball. Their success reflects not only their athletic talent but also their dedication to academics and personal development. At DME, we focus on developing the whole person, and it’s exciting to see their hard work recognized by top programs. This Signing Day highlights the strength of our program and the bright futures ahead for all our athletes.”
The future is bright for these athletes, and DME Academy is excited to watch them take the next step in their basketball careers at some of the nation’s top Division I programs. We look forward to celebrating their continued success as they represent DME on the national stage.
Ready to take your game to the next level? Learn more about our basketball programs here.
This past weekend at the SIAA Crossover held at DME Academy, Mikel Brown Jr. made a powerful statement. The nation’s #3 point guard and the No. 12 ranked high school player didn’t just show up—he dominated.
In the first game, Mikel lit up the scoreboard with a stellar 39-point performance, leading his team to a decisive victory. His offensive prowess was on full display, and there was simply no answer for his relentless scoring. But he wasn’t done yet.
The very next game, facing a tough matchup against Balboa, Mikel took it up a notch. He dropped an incredible 43 points, a DME Academy single-game record, including a clutch game-tying basket that sent the contest into overtime. Though the team came up just short in the extra period, Mikel’s effort was nothing short of heroic. Back-to-back games like this have set his season off to a scorching start, with an average of 41 points per game.
What makes Mikel’s performance so special is not just the numbers—it’s the way he plays the game. His skill set, combined with his drive and determination, puts him in a league of his own. Those who’ve seen the talent that’s come through DME Academy, including standouts like Keegan and Kris Murray, know that Mikel is on a path to greatness.
The buzz around DME this season is electric. It’s rare to see a player with this level of poise, skill, and maturity at such a young age. Mikel isn’t just another top recruit; he’s something special. The way he takes over games and delivers in clutch moments is reminiscent of legends who have gone on to great things. He’s a player you don’t want to miss.
Ready to take your game to the next level? Click here to learn how DME Academy can elevate your game.
Daytona, Fl. Former DME Soccer Academy standout James Eliuda is competing for the Atlantic 10 Championship with George Mason University, following an impressive sophomore season where he has emerged as a key player for the Patriots.
Eliuda Drives George Mason’s Success
Since joining the Patriots, James Eliuda has been a key player, contributing two goals, five assists, and a steady presence in midfield. His impact has been pivotal in driving George Mason to a 6-1-1 conference record and clinching the top seed in the A-10 Championships.
Next for Mason
The top-seeded Patriots will host the opening game of the 2024 Atlantic 10 Championships on Friday, Nov. 8, against eighth-seeded La Salle, with the opening kick scheduled for 7 p.m. at George Mason Stadium. This matchup will be a major opportunity for Eliuda and the Patriots to advance in the championship tournament on their home field.
Elevate Your Game with DME Academy
James Eliuda’s journey from DME Academy to collegiate success at George Mason highlights the impact of the elite coaching, mentorship and training every student athlete receives. For athletes with ambitions in college soccer, DME offers the tools, experience, and support to help them reach their full potential. As Eliuda heads into the A-10 Championship, he exemplifies how DME sets young players on a path to success.
Interested in building your future in soccer? Click here to learn more about how DME Academy can elevate your game.
Daytona, Fl. The DME Academy National Team recently had a strong showing at the 2025 Border League, finishing 2-1 against top competition across the country. With the chance to showcase the team’s new look and giving the players a chance to compete in front of college coaches and NBA scouts, the National squad took full advantage of the experience and spotlight while gaining a pulse on the team’s chemistry and season outlook.
The team was led by standout point guard Mikel Brown, who averaged 19.3 points and 3 assists per game across the weekend. Brown, currently ranked as the 12th best prospect in the class of 2025 by ESPN, showcased his elite skill set in every matchup. Trey Simpson, a Murray State commit, also made a big impact, including a double-double in DME’s win over Air Nado and a 22-point performance in a victory over The Vale.
“The Border League is one of the best events in the country. Attending this event gave our team an opportunity to measure ourselves against the best competition around the country while also giving our players great exposure.”
With the preseason behind them, the DME Academy National Team now shifts focus to their season opener on November 5th at home against Potter’s House Christian from Jacksonville, FL.
Want to learn more about how DME Academy’s basketball program develops elite athletes and prepares them for the next level? Click here to explore our programs and see how we help players reach their full potential—both on and off the court
In an impressive showing, DME Academy’s JV baseball team secured a 6-3 win against the Matanzas Varsity Pirates on Monday, turning the game around with a powerful offensive burst in the third inning.
Matanzas took an early lead in the first inning, with a single from their #67 driving in a run, and #69 stealing home to make it 2-0. However, DME’s JV squad quickly responded. In the third inning, the team exploded for five runs, capitalizing on four key hits to shift the momentum. The highlight came from Kade Nemitz, who drove in two runs with a well-timed single, setting DME on a path to victory.
On the mound, Cooper Gill provided stellar relief pitching for DME Academy, allowing only two hits and no runs across three innings. Gill also struck out three batters and walked one. Daniel Lucas started the game for DME, pitching one inning, giving up two hits and two runs, while striking out two.
Offensively, Nemitz led the charge for DME with two RBIs, going 1-for-2 at the plate. Zach Kilian contributed with two hits in four at-bats, while CJ Vanginhoven was aggressive on the bases, stealing two bags.
DME Academy’s defense was flawless, completing the game without a single error, which played a crucial role in their victory.
This win reflects DME Academy JV’s growing momentum and commitment to excellence. The team’s resilience, teamwork, and sharp play on the field highlight the quality of DME Academy’s athletic program, where student-athletes are trained to perform at their best. With dedicated coaching and a strong focus on skill development, the DME baseball program continues to provide a competitive environment that prepares student-athletes for the next level.
Interested in learning more about DME’s baseball program? Visit our website for more information on how we develop champions on and off the field.
Three of DME Academy’s standout female basketball players—Chikae Desdunes, Tessa Gladieux, and Gigi Battle—along with their chaperone, Bria Brown, have been selected to attend the Embry-Riddle Hoops & Heels Luncheon, presented by Brown & Brown.
This exclusive event not only connects them with influential female leaders but also provides a unique platform to engage with community mentors who champion the success of women, particularly in sports.
The significance of attending this luncheon goes beyond the immediate networking opportunities. It plays a critical role in their holistic development as female student-athletes, exposing them to real-world leadership and professional environments that are vital in shaping their futures.
As these players navigate both academic and athletic responsibilities, experiences like this help broaden their perspective, offering insights into career possibilities and personal growth beyond basketball. Building relationships with women who have achieved success in various fields is invaluable in instilling confidence, resilience, and a broader sense of purpose.
For these student-athletes, it’s an opportunity to see the far-reaching impact of their efforts, reinforcing the importance of perseverance, education, and community involvement. Such experiences are essential to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are prepared for success in life, both on and off the court.
This experience is a testament to the importance of supporting well-rounded growth for our student-athletes, preparing them not only to excel in sports but to thrive as empowered young women in the world.
Ready to take the next step? Learn more about our basketball program and how we empower student-athletes to excel both on and off the court click here.
Now in our third year as a full-time volleyball academy program, DME Academy continues to grow, attract top talent, and make waves in Florida’s competitive high school sports landscape. With student-athletes from diverse regions such as Switzerland, Brazil, Colombia, and various states across the U.S., our program embodies a unique, international dynamic that sets us apart.
Despite a season affected by hurricanes and unexpected event cancellations, resulting in nine lost matches, our team stands strong with a current 7-7 record. A highlight of the season includes our 3rd place finish at the prestigious JJVA Breast Cancer Awareness Tournament, where our athlete Juanita Hernandez earned a well-deserved spot on the “All-tournament team”. This achievement underscores the resilience and talent within our program.
We’ve competed against some of the top teams in the state, proving that our girls can hold their own against the very best. Our matchups include Middleburg, the defending 5A State Champions and currently ranked #24 in Florida, and Bishop Kenny, last year’s State 4A Final Four team, ranked #27. In an incredibly close match against Academy of Central Florida, we narrowly lost 15-13 in the deciding set. We’ve also gone head-to-head with The Rock, ranked #22 in Florida, who are defending NCAC National Champions, and battled tough opponents like St. John’s Lutheran and Hagerty, both ranked in Florida’s top 50.
At present, we are ranked #133 in the state of Florida, a reflection of the potential and growth of our program. Our competitive spirit and determination to excel are what drive us.
Our volleyball program has evolved from its roots in a renowned volleyball club to a full-time high school program dedicated to developing student-athletes at the highest level. With a solid foundation, we’ve built a program that nurtures both athletic and academic growth, providing our players with the tools they need to succeed on and off the court.
As we approach the end of the high school season and transition into club season, DME Academy offers a holistic, year-round approach that allows our female student-athletes to compete at an elite level throughout the entire calendar year. This comprehensive structure, combining high school and club competition, ensures that our athletes are constantly improving while preparing academically for future success.
To learn more about our Volleyball program visit our website or a schedule a call with one of our student advisors here!