Daytona, Fla.
DME Academy’s high school basketball program continues to shine as five players are named McDonald’s All American Games East Nominees. This recognition showcases the exceptional talent cultivated within our academy and highlights our commitment to developing elite athletes both on and off the court.
Mikel Brown Jr. and Trey Simpson III have been standout performers for DME Academy’s National Boys Team. Their exceptional skill, dynamic athleticism, and leadership on the court make them two of the most electrifying talents in high school basketball, solidifying the National Boys Team’s reputation as one of the best in the country.
Leyla Minor, Lara Barnes, and Zaniah Zellous have been instrumental in the Girls National Team’s undefeated conference record. Their teamwork and determination set the standard for excellence at DME Academy.
What Are the McDonald’s All American Games?
DME Academy offers a premier environment for high school basketball players to excel. Our mission is to help student-athletes thrive academically and athletically, preparing them for college and beyond. With world-class coaches, state-of-the-art facilities, and a proven track record of success, DME Academy is the ultimate destination for athletes who want to elevate their game.
If you’re ready to elevate your game, train with world-class coaches, and compete at the highest levels of high school basketball, we want to hear from you. Click the link here to get on our radar.
Daytona, Fla. DME Academy is excited to welcome Jacob Lanier to our basketball program. Originally from Little Rock, Arkansas, Jacob joins us after transferring from Arizona Compass. Ranked No. 52 in the Class of 2026 by ESPN and No. 2 in the state of Arkansas, Jacob is already making his mark in the recruiting world, holding offers from Arkansas, California, Kansas State, Creighton, and more.
Jacob’s skills on the court have earned him a reputation as one of the top shooting guards in the nation. Known for his sharp shooting and court vision, he adds another layer of strength to DME’s talented roster Head Coach Matt Panaggio shared his excitement about Jacob’s potential, saying, “Jacob is a great all-around player and an even better person. We are very proud to have him in our program. He will bring a new dynamic to the team as a great shooter and add another strong presence in the backcourt.”
Jacob joins a talented DME roster that includes standout players like No. 11-ranked Mikel Brown Jr. and Nathan Kirk. Coach Matt Panaggio emphasized the strength of this trio, stating they will be a challenge for any opponent to match. With his junior year underway, Jacob is preparing for a strong finish to the season and a senior campaign that promises even more success.
We are excited to see all that Jacob Lanier will achieve both on and off the court. Welcome to the DME Academy family, Jacob!
BOARDING OPTIONS
3-Week | Boarder: $5,395
COMMUTER OPTIONS
3-Week | Commuter: $3,955
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.
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!
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.
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
We are all currently facing times of uncertainty. We all continue to look ahead with optimism while knowing the need for flexibility if things should change. We also realize that the desire for many to keep improving, even during difficult periods, is a constant. And that is why we are offering worry-free booking options, if for any reason we cancel the event, you will receive a full refund (minus credit card processing fees).
Daytona, FL. On November 15th, Michael Panaggio, head coach of the Girls High School National basketball team at DME Academy, earned his 100th career victory. The milestone was achieved during a Grind Session matchup in Miami, Florida, against the Academy of Central Florida.
Since stepping into his role, Panaggio has led the Girls National team to national prominence. Under his guidance, the team reached No. 15 in ESPN’s Top 25 rankings this season and has consistently competed against some of the toughest programs in the country.
The 100th win is a testament to the team’s hard work and Panaggio’s ability to inspire excellence. The team played with intensity, discipline, and unity, executing key plays down the stretch to seal the game.
Congratulations to Coach Panaggio and the Girls National team on this remarkable achievement. DME Academy celebrates this milestone as a reflection of the hard work and dedication that continue to define its basketball program.
Ready to take your game to the next level? Click here to learn more about our nationally ranked basketball program and discover how you can elevate your game at DME Academy.
Daytona, FL. DME Academy’s very own Mikel Brown Jr. has taken the next big step in his basketball career by committing to the University of Louisville. As the No. 11 player in the nation and one of the top point guards in the Class of 2025, Mikel continues to break school records, leaving a lasting legacy at DME and positioning himself among the elite in high school basketball.
Mikel’s time at DME Academy has been nothing short of historic. Averaging an impressive 29.3 points per game this season, alongside 4.1 assists and 5.3 rebounds, Mikel has proven to be a dominant force on the court. From his multiple game-winning shots to shattering his own scoring record for DME Academy, Mikel is leaving an undeniable mark at DME. His commitment to excellence and his relentless work ethic are a testament to what it means to be a DME athlete.
Mikel’s decision to commit to Louisville is a significant milestone, not just for him but for DME Academy. Under the guidance of head coach Pat Kelsey—who has previously coached NBA great point guards like Chris Paul and Jeff Teague—Mikel will be stepping into a program with a storied tradition of developing elite point guards like Peyton Siva and Donovan Mitchell.
“Mikel is a generational talent,” Coach Kelsey shared. “His skill, vision, and leadership are unparalleled. He’s the kind of player who changes the game—and he’s only just getting started.” This move cements Mikel’s place among the nation’s basketball elite and provides him with the perfect platform to further his career, with Louisville’s high-octane style of play and proven track record of success.
As a member of the USA Basketball U18 National Team, he helped secure a gold medal at the FIBA U18 AmeriCup, showcasing his skills on an international stage. His ability to perform under pressure and adapt to any challenge underscores why he is one of the most highly regarded players in the country.
“Mikel’s legacy at DME is built on hard work, determination, and an unwavering commitment to greatness,” said Dan Pannagio, Co-Founder at DME Academy. “We couldn’t be prouder to see him take this next step and continue to make his mark.”
Ready to Take Your Game to the Next Level?
Mikel Brown Jr.’s journey is a testament to the power of elite coaching, a supportive environment, and relentless drive. At DME Academy, we’re committed to helping student-athletes achieve their goals on and off the court. Are you ready to elevate your game?
Speak with a Student Advisor today and discover how DME Academy can guide you toward success. Click here to get started!
Mikel Brown Jr., a standout at DME Academy and the No. 11 ranked high school basketball player in the nation, has added another accolade to his growing list of achievements. He has been nominated for USA Basketball’s 2024 5-on-5 Male Athlete of the Year, joining an elite group that includes NBA legends LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Steph Curry.
Brown Jr. helped lead USA Basketball to the gold medal at the 2024 FIBA U18 Men’s AmeriCup. His all-around performance earned him a spot on the all-tournament team, averaging 10.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 5.2 assists in 25.0 minutes per game. As the team’s leader in assists and minutes, he demonstrated his ability to excel in high-pressure situations, whether distributing the ball, scoring from deep, or finishing on the fast break.
Thriving at DME Academy
Mikel Brown Jr. has been a dominant force since joining DME Academy, consistently raising the bar with his elite finishing skills and scoring ability, which has seen him break DME Academy’s scoring record twice. Fresh off a standout showing at the Palm Classic, Brown Jr. dropped 28 points with ease and added yet another buzzer-beater to his highlight reel. Known for his composure under pressure and versatility on the court, Brown Jr. continues to cement himself as one of the most dynamic guards in high school basketball.
Mikel Brown Jr.’s nomination as a 5-on-5 Male Athlete of the Year is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Show your support for Mikel and cast your vote at USA Basketball’s website here.
Gigi Battle Leads DME Girls National Team to Top 15 Ranking
The DME Academy Girls National Team has broken into the ESPN High School Girls Top 25 Power Rankings at #15, marking a strong start to the season. With standout performances from Gigi Battle, the team showcased their talent both in Miami and during this past weekend’s Grind Session at home.
In their opening game, DME secured a decisive 30+ point victory over Bond Academy, an international opponent from Canada. Chikae Desdunes led the charge with a standout performance, earning Player of the Game honors. She contributed across the board with 18 points, 5 steals, 5 rebounds, and 4 assists in just 18 minutes of play, setting the tone for a dominant start to the weekend.
The weekend concluded with a highly competitive matchup against a strong Academy team from Orlando. After a close first half, Gigi Battle stepped up to take control, delivering a game-high 37 points and leading DME to a 68-52 victory. Her offensive explosion in the second half was the difference-maker, securing a perfect weekend for the team.
During Grind Session play at DME Academy from Nov. 22–24, the Girls National Team kept their momentum alive with three hard-fought wins. Gigi Battle was the standout performer once again, averaging an impressive 19.3 points per game across the weekend.
In the final matchup against Royal Crown, Gigi Battle delivered a game-winning layup in the closing seconds to secure the lead and cement an undefeated weekend for DME. Her consistent excellence earned her Player of the Game honors for all three games, showcasing her leadership and clutch play on the court.
The Girls National Team has started the season on fire, led by Gigi Battle’s stellar performances. Are you ready to elevate your game? Learn more about how DME Academy develops top talent on and off the court. Click here to get on our radar.
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.
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.