Daytona, FL.
Daytona, FL. GiGi Battle and Chikae Desdunes are entering their senior year at DME Academy with national recognition and momentum.
ESPN’s latest update to the 2026 rankings puts GiGi at #42 and Chikae at #46. These rankings reflect years of consistent growth, discipline, and high-level performance.
GiGi has already passed 1,000 points and 500 rebounds in her high school career. She’s also ranked as the #1 girls basketball player in New Jersey.
Her recruitment includes visits and interest from Michigan, Iowa, Stanford, Illinois, Rutgers, Georgia, and Indiana. GiGi plays with power, finishes through contact, and brings a steady presence in big moments.
Chikae plays a key role at DME and has seen consistent success in the system. Already she has passed 2,000 points in her high school career and is currently ranked the #1 girls basketball player in Louisiana. She’s now listed at #46 in ESPN’s 2026 rankings.
She’s now ranked #46 in ESPN’s 2026 rankings.
Her recruitment includes offers from Oregon, West Virginia, Baylor, Colorado, Auburn, Georgia Tech, Oklahoma State, and Alabama. Chikae continues to rise with a dynamic style and strong impact on both ends of the court.
GiGi and Chikae return to lead a group with experience and continuity. The schedule is national, the roster is competitive, and the expectations are high. This team has a real shot to contend for a state title and close out their careers by setting a new standard at DME.
DME Academy helps serious athletes train with purpose, compete against high-level programs, and build a path to the next level. With year-round structure, national exposure, and a staff that understands what it takes, we prepare players to perform when it counts.
Learn more about our program or speak with an advisor today.
Daytona, FL. Two athletes from DME Academy’s girls basketball academy—Micaela Cavalcanti (Brazil) and Lorrie Brown (Cayman Islands)—earned international honors at the 2025 Basketball Without Borders Americas Camp in San Salvador.
This prestigious four-day event brought together top high school-aged female athletes from Latin America, Canada, and the Caribbean. Led by NBA and FIBA players, coaches, and legends, participants received skill training, mentorship, and the opportunity to compete with the region’s best.
Cavalcanti stood out for her skill, leadership, and sportsmanship. She earned the Patrick Baumann Sportsmanship Award and was selected to the All-Star Team, making a strong impression on coaches and peers alike.
Meanwhile, Brown showcased her intensity and defensive presence on the court. Representing the Cayman Islands, she proved she belongs among the top prospects in the Americas. Her performance added to the growing list of DME athletes gaining international recognition.
DME Academy continues to prove itself as one of the top basketball prep schools for girls in the U.S. With elite coaching, a competitive national schedule, and a structured training program, DME helps athletes succeed at the next level—whether that’s college basketball or international play.
Student-athletes at DME train, study, and live in a supportive and structured environment. The academy combines on-court development with academics, nutrition, and mental performance coaching. As a result, every athlete is equipped to grow on and off the court.
DME Academy has helped players like Micaela and Lorrie earn international exposure and prepare for the next level. If you’re looking for a serious girls basketball academy that develops talent and character, start your journey here.
Learn more about our program or speak with an advisor now.
Daytona, FL.Louisville basketball commit Mikel Brown Jr. has been named one of the top eight freshmen to watch for the upcoming 2025–26 college basketball season, according to CBS Sports.
Brown, a 5-star point guard and former standout at DME Academy, was ranked No. 5 on the national list. He joins a group of elite recruits that includes Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer, and Darius Acuff Jr.
Brown is currently ranked as the No. 1 point guard in the class of 2025 by 247Sports and is already generating early buzz for the 2026 NBA Draft.
He committed to Louisville after receiving more than 25 offers from major programs, including Alabama, Kansas, Michigan, Florida, Kentucky, and Tennessee. The Cardinals now add one of the most college-ready guards in the country to a roster with national aspirations.
During his final year at DME Academy, Brown averaged 29.6 points per game. He earned McDonald’s All-American honors, won the 3-Point Contest at the McDonald’s All-American Game, and started for Team USA at the FIBA U18 AmeriCup—averaging 10.3 points and 5.2 assists per game.
His ability to control pace, create scoring opportunities, and take over games has made him a standout at every level. CBS Sports called him “a monumental win” for Louisville and a freshman expected to play a major role right away under head coach Pat Kelsey.
Brown’s development at DME Academy helped shape the player he is today. He competed against top-tier talent, trained in a professional environment, and earned opportunities through consistent, high-level play.
His path reflects what’s possible when talent, work ethic, and the right system come together.
DME Academy has helped athletes like Mikel Brown Jr. sharpen their skills, compete nationally, and prepare for what’s next. If you’re serious about your future, it starts with the right training environment.
Learn more about our program or speak with an advisor today.
DME Academy expanded its global reach this April with the launch of the Dubai Basketball Showcase. The three-day event attracted top youth athletes from the Middle East, Europe, and other parts of the world.
Held from April 4–6 at Champs Sports Club in Jebel Ali, Dubai, the showcase gave players aged 12 to 18 a rare opportunity. They trained with experienced U.S. coaches and competed in front of American scouts.
gnacio Rodriguez, DME’s international director, led the event. He was joined by co-founder Mike Panaggio and girls head coach Michael Panaggio. Players traveled from countries such as Kuwait, Lebanon, Serbia, and Jordan to attend.
For many, it was their first time being evaluated by coaches from the United States. As one camper explained, “It’s an amazing opportunity to improve as a player and grow as a person.”
World-Class Development, Delivered
The showcase followed a structured daily plan that focused on real development. Each day included:
Skill stations based on position and level
Live scrimmages with coach observation
Team-building sessions to promote communication
One-on-one feedback for personal growth
Because of the event’s focus and intensity, both players and parents noticed how different it felt from other youth basketball camps. It delivered far more than just drills or games.
Scouted by U.S. Coaches and Agents
Unlike most international basketball events, this showcase gave players real exposure to DME Academy’s U.S.-based coaching staff and partner network. Athletes were evaluated for possible placement at DME Academy’s Florida campus, which has produced NCAA players, national team athletes, and professionals around the world.
For many in attendance, it was their first look at the expectations of elite-level competition—and the first time someone from the U.S. was watching.
DME Academy remains committed to identifying and developing international talent. With future showcases planned across Europe and the Middle East, this Dubai event marked a key step in making elite U.S. training more accessible to global athletes.
And for those ready to take the next step, DME Academy’s Summer Prep Camp in Florida is now open for registration.
Open to boys and girls aged 14 to 18, this summer program is built for athletes who want to train, compete, and grow at the highest level. Led by DME’s elite coaching staff—including former pros and college-level coaches—campers will develop their game through:
Two on-court practices per day
Four strength and conditioning sessions each week
Three competitive Florida AAU tournaments
Beach workouts and team-building trips
College campus and facility tours
Optional English immersion classes (limited availability)
Athletes live and train on DME’s state-of-the-art campus, with housing, meals, and everything they need to focus on development, under the Florida sun.
This is more than just a camp. It’s preparation for the next level.
Register Now for Basketball Summer Prep
Daytona, FL. DME Academy senior guard Asya Lara Barnes has officially committed to play Division I basketball at Towson University. The 6’0” standout made her decision on April 7, becoming the latest DME athlete to take the next step in their playing career.
Originally from Turkey, Asya Lara Barnes has been a cornerstone of the girls’ basketball program throughout her time at DME. In her senior season, she averaged 7.8 points per game and earned praise for her leadership and consistent performance against national competition.
“She’s the epitome of a DME student-athlete,” said Head Coach Michael Panaggio. “Works hard, humble, stellar teammate. We know she’s going to do big things, and we couldn’t be more proud of her.”
Barnes didn’t care about the spotlight—she stayed focused on development. Whether in practice or on the road, she showed up ready to compete and support her team. Her approach earned respect from coaches, teammates, and recruiters.
DME Academy’s national schedule gives players the kind of exposure that matters, and Barnes made the most of it.
This commitment is part of something bigger. DME Academy continues to send players to the next level by providing structure, elite coaching, and a competitive environment that prepares athletes for college basketball.
Congratulations to Asya on this well-earned milestone.
At DME Academy, we help student-athletes like Asya take the next step. With elite coaching, year-round development, and a national schedule, we provide a platform that produces real results. Ready to elevate your game? Talk to a student admission advisor today!
BROOKLYN, N.Y. — Mikel Brown Jr. didn’t wait for tip-off to make an impact at the 2025 McDonald’s All American Games. The DME Academy senior and Louisville commit claimed the boys’ three-point contest title with a score of 28, catching fire early and closing strong in front of a packed crowd.
Brown knocked down 9 of his first 10 shots and finished by hitting 4 of 5 from the corner. On his final shot, he turned to celebrate with his East teammates before the ball even dropped—a confident performance from one of the most skilled guards in the country.
The McDonald’s All American Game, held annually in front of NBA scouts, media, and college coaches, is considered the premier stage for elite high school talent. All 24 players selected for the boys’ game ranked among ESPN’s top 28 seniors.
The 6’3” point guard from DME Academy is the second-highest ranked recruit in Louisville history during the modern era. He becomes the program’s 29th McDonald’s All American and first since 2019. In February, ESPN projected him as a lottery pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
Brown told Louisville Sports Live that an injury shortened his senior season, but he was “100% ready to go” for All-American Week—and he’s proving it. Brown is Louisville’s 29th McDonald’s All American and the program’s first selection since 2019.
“He’s a championship point guard,” Louisville head coach Pat Kelsey said following Brown’s signing in January. “I’ve coached some great, great, great point guards; and I think Mikel is special.
From all of us at DME Academy, we’re proud to have been part of Mikel’s journey. Now, we’ll be cheering him on as he takes the next step toward greatness.
Ready to elevate your game?
DME trains elite student-athletes to compete on the biggest stages. If you’re ready to be next—visit dmeacademy.com or speak with a student-athlete advisor today.
Daytona, FLA. DME Academy is proud to announce that Mikel Brown Jr., one of the nation’s top-ranked high school point guards, has been named a 2025 McDonald’s All-American. On April 1, he will take the court at Barclays Center in New York, showcasing his talent on a national stage.
This prestigious honor solidifies his place among the country’s elite high school players while further elevating DME Academy’s reputation in Florida high school basketball. His selection is a testament to his record-breaking season, high basketball IQ, and leadership on the court.
Since arriving at DME Academy, Brown has put up incredible numbers, proving why he is one of the most dynamic high school guards in the nation. IIn seven games, he has averaged 29.6 points, 2.7 assists, and 2.1 rebounds per game while shooting 62.7% from the field and 61.5% from three-point range.
His ability to control the game, break down defenders, and score at will has made him one of the most highly sought-after high school basketball players in Florida. His performance at DME Academy showcases the elite coaching, competition, and development opportunities that set the program apart.
Brown’s dominance extends far beyond Florida high school basketball. Competing at the highest levels, he has consistently proven himself as one of the best guards in the nation. With Team Loaded (N.C.) on the Adidas 3SSB Circuit, he averaged 23.5 points, 3.4 assists, and 3.1 rebounds over 11 games. On the international stage, he helped USA Basketball’s U18 National Team win gold at the FIBA U18 AmeriCup, starting all six games and contributing 10.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game.
Brown’s McDonald’s All-American selection is just the beginning. As he takes the court in New York on April 1, he joins a legendary list of players who have worn the iconic McDonald’s All-American jersey—many of whom have gone on to NBA stardom.
His journey from DME Academy to the national stage is proof of the elite training, competition, and development opportunities available to student-athletes at DME.
For serious basketball players looking to take their game to the next level, DME Academy offers the ultimate training and development program. Whether you’re preparing for college basketball or looking to refine your skills under elite coaching, DME is where the best come to train. Click the link to learn more about our program.
BOARDING OPTIONS
1-Week | Boarder: $1,200
COMMUTER OPTIONS
1-Week | Commuter: $899
DME Academy's elite basketball coaching staff brings a wealth of knowledge at the professional, collegiate, and youth levels. Our coaches specialize in developing complete athletes - from skills enhancement and improving game IQ, to speed, agility and strength training.
DME's basketball coaches provide thoughtful and personalized feedback, encouragement and support, and loads of fun as they share their passion for the sport.
Sharpen your fundamentals and develop the key skills needed to compete and excel at the next level of play.
PLAY WITH THE BEST
Compete and train alongside top athletes from around the world, challenging yourself to reach new heights and refine your skills.
Increase speed, strength, and endurance with our advanced training and sport-specific methods.
MENTAL TOUGHNESS & GAME IQ
Develop the mindset of a champion. Gain focus, confidence, and discipline to thrive under pressure.
At DME Academy, we don’t just develop players – we shape champions. Our world-class basketball facilities and professional, college-level coaching are designed to elevate your skills and mindset. Whether you’re refining your shot or mastering your footwork, you’ll train alongside driven athletes from across the globe.
This is where serious players push each other to reach their full potential and compete at the highest level. Experience the DME difference and take your game to new heights!
DME prides itself in providing our student-athletes the tools to be successful and reach their full potential. With a training facility that competes with most collegiate programs, including 2 indoor basketball courts, 1 outdoor basketball court, weight room, recovery facility, and Audio/Visual Center for film analysis, DME is sure to provide your the resources to take your game to an elite level.
Boarding campers will feel right at home in our 18,000 square foot, 80-bed dormitory, which hosts a fully equipped commercial kitchen, large cafeteria, onsite laundry facility, conference room, learning center, outdoor court, two student lounges, and more.
The cost of this program varies depending on length of stay and room & boarding needs. This all inclusive, 25 day camp costs $4,500. Contact our team for more information.
(*Includes $500 incidental deposit)
Absolutely! If you are interested in having your team participate in one of our camps or even design one specifically for your team please contact us here.
With two full NBA courts, five youth basketball courts, 4 sand/beach volleyball courts, 7 regulation indoor volleyball courts, a shooting lab, two weight rooms, a 60x40 turf field used for soccer and outdoor performance training, a spa and recovery facility and audio/visual center for video analysis, DME has a training facility that competes with most collegiate programs. Explore our athletic facilities here!
The items below are recommendations for a one week stay at the DME Academy
Our brand new 18,000 square feet dormitory is now open! This 80-bed dormitory hosts two student lounges, a fully equipped commercial kitchen, a large cafeteria, an onsite laundry facility, a conference room, a learning center, an outdoor court, and more. We also have 2 private chefs that provide a 3/meals per day meal plan that is designed with the unique needs of a growing competitive student-athlete.
To learn more about our Summer Prep program:
US Athletes: Click Here
International Athletes: Click Here
BOARDING OPTIONS
1-Week | Boarder: $1,200
COMMUTER OPTIONS
1-Week | Commuter: $899
DME Academy's elite basketball coaching staff brings a wealth of knowledge at the professional, collegiate, and youth levels. Our coaches specialize in developing complete athletes - from skills enhancement and improving game IQ, to speed, agility and strength training.
DME's basketball coaches provide thoughtful and personalized feedback, encouragement and support, and loads of fun as they share their passion for the sport.
Sharpen your fundamentals and develop the key skills needed to compete and excel at the next level of play.
PLAY WITH THE BEST
Compete and train alongside top athletes from around the world, challenging yourself to reach new heights and refine your skills.
Increase speed, strength, and endurance with our advanced training and sport-specific methods.
MENTAL TOUGHNESS & GAME IQ
Develop the mindset of a champion. Gain focus, confidence, and discipline to thrive under pressure.
At DME Academy, we don’t just develop players – we shape champions. Our world-class basketball facilities and professional, college-level coaching are designed to elevate your skills and mindset. Whether you’re refining your shot or mastering your footwork, you’ll train alongside driven athletes from across the globe.
This is where serious players push each other to reach their full potential and compete at the highest level. Experience the DME difference and take your game to new heights!
DME prides itself in providing our student-athletes the tools to be successful and reach their full potential. Our elite training facilities include indoor and outdoor batting and pitching cages, performance center, recovery facility, and full access to pristine local baseball diamonds, DME is sure to provide you the resources to take your game to an elite level.
Boarding campers will feel right at home in our 18,000 square foot, 80-bed dormitory, which hosts a fully equipped commercial kitchen, large cafeteria, onsite laundry facility, conference room, learning center, outdoor court, two student lounges, and more.
The cost of this program varies depending on length of stay and room & boarding needs. This all inclusive, 25 day camp costs $4,500. Contact our team for more information.
(*Includes $500 incidental deposit)
Absolutely! If you are interested in having your team participate in one of our camps or even design one specifically for your team please contact us here.
With two full NBA courts, five youth basketball courts, 4 sand/beach volleyball courts, 7 regulation indoor volleyball courts, a shooting lab, two weight rooms, a 60x40 turf field used for soccer and outdoor performance training, a spa and recovery facility and audio/visual center for video analysis, DME has a training facility that competes with most collegiate programs. Explore our athletic facilities here!
The items below are recommendations for a one week stay at the DME Academy
Our brand new 18,000 square feet dormitory is now open! This 80-bed dormitory hosts two student lounges, a fully equipped commercial kitchen, a large cafeteria, an onsite laundry facility, a conference room, a learning center, an outdoor court, and more. We also have 2 private chefs that provide a 3/meals per day meal plan that is designed with the unique needs of a growing competitive student-athlete.
To learn more about our Summer Prep program:
US Athletes: Click Here
International Athletes: Click Here
DME Academy's elite basketball coaching staff brings a wealth of knowledge at the professional, collegiate, and youth levels. Our coaches specialize in developing complete athletes - from skills enhancement and improving game IQ, to speed, agility and strength training.
DME's basketball coaches provide thoughtful and personalized feedback, encouragement and support, and loads of fun as they share their passion for the sport.
Sharpen your fundamentals and develop the key skills needed to compete and excel at the next level of play.
PLAY WITH THE BEST
Compete and train alongside top athletes from around the world, challenging yourself to reach new heights and refine your skills.
Increase speed, strength, and endurance with our advanced training and sport-specific methods.
MENTAL TOUGHNESS & GAME IQ
Develop the mindset of a champion. Gain focus, confidence, and discipline to thrive under pressure.
At DME Academy, we don’t just develop players – we shape champions. Our world-class soccer facilities and expert coaching, with experience at the professional and college levels, are designed to elevate your game. Whether you’re perfecting your footwork or refining your tactical skills, you’ll train alongside driven athletes from around the globe.
This is where serious players push each other to reach their full potential and compete at the highest level. Experience the DME difference and take your game to new heights!
DME prides itself in providing our student-athletes the tools to be successful and reach their full potential. Our elite training facilities include indoor and outdoor batting and pitching cages, performance center, recovery facility, and full access to pristine local baseball diamonds, DME is sure to provide you the resources to take your game to an elite level.
Boarding campers will feel right at home in our 18,000 square foot, 80-bed dormitory, which hosts a fully equipped commercial kitchen, large cafeteria, onsite laundry facility, conference room, learning center, outdoor court, two student lounges, and more.
The cost of this program varies depending on length of stay and room & boarding needs. This all inclusive, 25 day camp costs $4,500. Contact our team for more information.
(*Includes $500 incidental deposit)
Absolutely! If you are interested in having your team participate in one of our camps or even design one specifically for your team please contact us here.
With two full NBA courts, five youth basketball courts, 4 sand/beach volleyball courts, 7 regulation indoor volleyball courts, a shooting lab, two weight rooms, a 60x40 turf field used for soccer and outdoor performance training, a spa and recovery facility and audio/visual center for video analysis, DME has a training facility that competes with most collegiate programs. Explore our athletic facilities here!
The items below are recommendations for a one week stay at the DME Academy
Our brand new 18,000 square feet dormitory is now open! This 80-bed dormitory hosts two student lounges, a fully equipped commercial kitchen, a large cafeteria, an onsite laundry facility, a conference room, a learning center, an outdoor court, and more. We also have 2 private chefs that provide a 3/meals per day meal plan that is designed with the unique needs of a growing competitive student-athlete.
To learn more about our Summer Prep program:
US Athletes: Click Here
International Athletes: Click Here
