On November 8, DME Academy celebrated a momentous National Signing Day as six exceptional student-athletes officially committed to continuing their academic and athletic journeys at esteemed institutions.
Jaylen Robinson, a 6’6″ forward, chose the University of Richmond’s academics and men’s basketball program over a distinguished list of finalists, including Princeton, Mercer, Yale, Penn, and Columbia. Matt Panaggio, Director of Men’s Basketball at DME Academy, expressed his pride in Jaylen, stating, “I am very proud of Jaylen and excited to see his future at the University of Richmond. He’s very unselfish, coachable, and hardworking.”
Olivia Schmitt, a 5’5″ point guard from Staten Island, is heading back to her home state to study and play women’s basketball at Syracuse University. Head coach Felisha Legette-Jack said, “She has a certain toughness about her. She can pass that ball; she can shoot that ball, and one thing I love about her is she has no problem going in with the trees and trying to make things happen.”
Keira Scott, a 6’1″ four-star forward and daughter of Syracuse football alum George Scott, will be joining DME teammate, Olivia Schmitt, at Syracuse University. Legette-Jack said, “Once we learned how incredibly gifted she was both academically and athletically, and she’s also got a connection to being Orange, it was a no-brainer that we were going to go after her as if she was the best player in the world.”
Tahj Bloom, a highly rated 6’3″ forward for DME Academy, signed with Mississippi State University as a four-star recruit, ranking No. 41 overall and No. 9 among forwards by Premiere Basketball and espnW HoopGurlz. Head Coach Sam Purcell said of Bloom, “She brings a dynamic skill set and competitive mentality each time she steps on the floor. Most importantly, Tahj comes from a great family and will be a great addition to the culture we are building at Mississippi State.”
6’2″ forward from Melbourne, Australia, Tabitha Betson, signed to the University of Colorado. A four-star recruit, Betson holds the No. 80 spot on ESPN.com’s top 100 list. Colorado head coach, JR Payne, said, “Tabs is one of the most skilled and well-rounded players we have recruited here at Colorado. Her basketball IQ is off the charts and will be a perfect fit for our offensive system.”
Ines Goryanova, a 5’8″ point guard from Sofia, Bulgaria, chose Baylor University. Ranked No. 49 on ProspectsNation and No. 71 on espnW, Goryanova impressed Baylor head coach Nicki Collen with her exciting guard abilities, deep shooting range, and the overall toughness cultivated through her mother’s extensive professional basketball background.
Michael Panaggio, Director of Girl’s Basketball at DME Academy, commemorated the day as historic for the program, stating, “We have 5 extremely special young ladies who are headed to the power 5 level. I am very proud of their individual success thus far and I’m excited to see what they can accomplish together during their senior year.”
DME Academy looks forward to witnessing the continued success of our class of 2024 basketball student-athletes, both academically and athletically. Congratulations to these outstanding student-athletes on this remarkable accomplishment.
DME Academy’s 2024 guard standout, Ines Goryanova, has announced her commitment to Baylor University Women’s Basketball, solidifying her place as the second addition to the Bears’ 2024 class, alongside forward Kayla Nelms.
At a height of 5-foot-8, Goryanova has earned her reputation as a No. 71 overall prospect in the highly competitive 2024 class. This exceptional achievement positions her as a promising prospect within the realm of women’s collegiate basketball. Moreover, Baylor’s 2024 class now boasts two top 100 prospects, reinforcing the program’s commitment to excellence and continuous success.
Goryanova’s decision to choose Baylor over formidable offers from institutions like Penn State, Auburn, Cal, Louisville, Texas A&M, Mississippi State, and West Virginia underscores the magnetic pull of the Baylor Bears. When asked about her choice, Ines herself shared her excitement, stating, “I’m super excited to play for Baylor and Coach Nicki. I think she’s an amazing coach and a person that’s going to help me grow as a player and as a person.”
Goryanova’s decision to commit to Baylor is a testament to her admiration for the coaching staff, the program’s welcoming atmosphere, and the genuine connections she felt with the people there. Her choice signifies the profound impact that the Baylor Women’s Basketball program, under the leadership of Coach Nicki, has in nurturing both talent and character.
DME looks forward to having Ines representing the academy in blue and black this season, and knows that she has a successful collegiate career ahead of her.
To learn more about DME Academy’s prestigious girls basketball program and how they’re developing athletes for next-level success, click here.
The 2023 Nike World Basketball Festival was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of basketball culture, a gathering of the world’s finest athletes, and a showcase of the best products and experiences in the sport. Amidst the glittering backdrop of Lincoln Center in New York City, one young player stood out as a beacon of talent and determination – Keira Scott, an elite girls’ basketball player from DME Academy.
The festival, held from September 15 to 16, brought together the brightest stars in the world of basketball. The event aimed to usher in a new era of basketball culture, designed especially for, and with, the next generation of players and fans. With its electrifying atmosphere and world-class competition, the festival lived up to its promise.
The competition showcased four selectively assembled regional teams, each consisting of nationally-ranked talent. Scott was among a select group of just thirty-five athletes who received invitations to participate, proudly representing the ‘South’ regional team.
Standing tall at 6’2″, Scott is a versatile wing known for her incredible skills and accuracy, especially from the 3-point line. She is a standout player for DME Academy, and after the upcoming season, will take her talents to Syracuse University.
However, this past weekend, she was in the spotlight for leading her ‘South’ team to a resounding tournament victory. Scott’s exceptional performance was a key factor in her team’s success, and she left her mark on the tournament with a memorable 3-pointer shot with just one minute remaining in the championship game. Adding a touch of star power to the celebration was rapper Travis Scott, who was on hand to present the championship trophy to Keira and her victorious teammates.
Scott summed up her experience at the festival with enthusiasm, stating, “I had a great time and experience playing with the top competition from around the world, in such a monumental place in NYC.” DME Academy takes immense pride in Scott’s achievements and her role as a symbol of excellence in women’s basketball. Her journey from DME Academy to the global stage of the 2023 Nike World Basketball Festival is a testament to her talent, hard work, and the academy’s commitment to fostering young athletes’ growth.
As Scott looks forward to her upcoming season with DME Academy and her future at Syracuse University, basketball fans everywhere eagerly await the next chapter in her remarkable journey. With her dedication and undeniable talent, there is no doubt that Keira Scott is destined for even greater heights in the world of basketball.
To learn more about DME Academy’s prestigious girls basketball program, click here.
DME Academy takes immense pride in fostering talent that transcends borders, and Lara Barnes is a testament to our commitment to nurturing the best. A standout Shooting Guard on DME Academy’s High School National Girl’s Basketball team, Barnes recently made headlines by representing Turkey in the 2023 FIBA U16 Women’s European Championship held in Izmir, Turkey from August 11 to 19, 2023.
Barnes demonstrated her incredible skill set as she donned the Turkish national jersey during this prestigious international tournament. Notably, she led the team in points per game with 9, and 3-point shooting efficiency, which stood at just over 35%. Her sharpshooting from beyond the arc was a crucial factor in Turkey’s success during the championship.
Mike Panaggio, DME Director and Head Coach of girl’s basketball, couldn’t be more thrilled about Barnes’ achievements. He shared, “Lara is an exceptional talent, and her performance at the FIBA U16 Women’s European Championship is a testament to her dedication and skill. We are excited to have her back at DME Academy as she prepares for the upcoming high school season. Her experience on the international stage will undoubtedly elevate her game and inspire her teammates.”
Barnes’ journey from the DME Academy court to representing Turkey at an international tournament exemplifies the exceptional training and development opportunities available to our athletes. It’s not just about honing their skills but also providing them with the exposure and experience needed to compete at the highest level of basketball.
This achievement reflects the collective effort of Lara Barnes, her coaches, and the entire DME Academy community. As she returns to her training regimen at DME Academy, Barnes is set to continue her growth and success, both as an individual player and as an integral part of the elite squad at DME.
DME Academy takes immense pride in our athletes’ achievements, and Lara Barnes’s journey is a shining example of what can be accomplished with determination, dedication, and world-class coaching. DME looks forward to another remarkable season with Barnes and the rest of the very talented High School National squad.
To learn more about how you can become a part of DME Academy’s elite girl’s basketball program, click here.
DME Academy’s girls basketball program proudly announces that not one, not two, but four of their exceptional players have earned spots on the prestigious ESPN HoopGurlz Top 100 List for the 2024 recruiting class. Tahj Bloom, Ines Goryanova, Tabitha Betson, and Keira Scott have all earned well-deserved recognition for their outstanding skills, dedication, and hard work.
Tahj Bloom, a 6’3″ forward from Chicago, Illinois, has secured the 38th spot on the list. The 8th-ranked forward recently committed to DME Academy for the upcoming season, and her impact is anticipated to be nothing short of extraordinary. Bloom is a top recruit in the 2024 class, having received numerous offers from top Division I programs but ultimately committing to Mississippi State.
Next on the list is Ines Goryanova at #71, marking an impressive ascent of 8 spots since the last rankings. Hailing from London, England, Goryanova is a 4-star point guard who has garnered attention from over 35 colleges across the nation. With her sights set high, she has recently narrowed down her prospective schools to an electrifying Top 8, which reads like a who’s who of collegiate basketball—Louisville, West Virginia, Auburn, Baylor, Iowa State, and more. Goryanova’s dedication and skill set make her a valuable asset to any team she joins.
Tabitha Betson, a 6’2″ forward from Melbourne, Australia, holds the 80th spot on the list. Betson’s ability to dominate in the paint is complemented by her versatility on both offense and defense, and she’s expected to be a strong leader for this DME Academy team in the upcoming season. Betson received offers from over 30 Division I women’s basketball programs, and has now narrowed her choices down to a select group of 12 schools, including powerhouses such as Syracuse, Clemson, and Maryland.
Last but certainly not least, Keira Scott stakes her claim at #97. Hailing from Falls Church, Virginia, this 6’2″ wing has already secured her future at Syracuse University, a testament to her exceptional skills both on and off the court. She’s expected to put a lot up on the board for DME Academy this season, especially from the 3-point range.
As the 2023-24 season looms on the horizon, DME Academy’s girls basketball program stands on the precipice of greatness. With an ensemble of talented players who have not only secured their places among ESPN’s HoopGurlz Top 100 but also demonstrated the commitment and passion that fuels their drive, success is inevitable. Michael Panaggio, Director of Girls Basketball at DME Academy, stated, “We are immensely proud of Tahj, Ines, Tab, and Keira for their remarkable achievements. Their inclusion in the ESPN Top 100 List is a testament to their dedication, hard work, and boundless potential. We are excited to see them continue to excel and make a significant impact both on and off the court.”
To learn more about DME Academy’s elite girls basketball program, click here.
The halls of DME Academy reverberated with the sounds of dribbling basketballs and the echoes of enthusiastic cheers as the renowned institution recently concluded another highly successful Summer Prep camp season. With a commitment to excellence and an unwavering dedication to nurturing aspiring athletes, DME Academy once again demonstrated its prowess in providing top-tier training and development opportunities for young athletes.
The Basketball Summer Prep camp, which took place from July 7 to 31, drew significant attention and anticipation as it quickly sold out, underscoring the eagerness of young basketball enthusiasts to elevate their game. Boys and girls aged 14 to 19 converged at DME Academy to participate in the intensive 25-day program. Designed to cater to serious basketball athletes seeking to advance to the next level, the camp provided a comprehensive platform for skill enhancement and game readiness.
Guided by DME’s seasoned coaches, each possessing a wealth of college and/or professional experience, the athletes were fully engaged in an immersive and transformational training program. DME Academy’s state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technologies complemented the training sessions, providing a dynamic environment for growth and improvement.
The basketball camp’s itinerary was meticulously crafted to provide a comprehensive experience. The athletes engaged in two on-court practices per day, accompanied by four strength and conditioning workouts per week to optimize their physical capabilities. Beach workouts added an extra layer of intensity to the program, enhancing endurance and strength. The inclusion of three Florida AAU events and approximately 15 games ensured that the athletes received exposure to high levels of competition. When they weren’t training, the DME campers enjoyed their down time visiting college campuses, taking group trips to the movies and mall, and catching a Daytona Tortugas baseball game.
Recognizing the importance of keeping families engaged in their athletes’ journey, DME Academy employed an array of tools to ensure parents remained well-informed and connected. Live-streamed home games brought the thrill of competition to parents’ screens, regardless of their geographical location, allowing them to witness the progress and dedication of their young athletes. Professionally recorded games, conveniently accessible through platforms like Hudl and Youtube, not only provided a chance for parents to review their children’s performances but also reinforced DME Academy’s commitment to transparency and quality. Furthermore, a dedicated WhatsApp group was established, facilitating the seamless sharing of daily updates, photos, and videos, enabling parents to experience the daily activities and progress of their athletes firsthand. This holistic approach to communication solidified the sense of community and collaboration between DME Academy, athletes, and their families, fostering an environment of trust and shared achievement.
The appeal of DME Academy’s Summer Prep camp transcended geographical boundaries. Campers flocked to the academy from near and far, underscoring the program’s reputation internationally. DME Academy proudly hosted groups from across the world, including Qatar and Switzerland.
Derrick Lang, the executive director of DLANG Training, brought over 35 players from Switzerland. Lang’s involvement highlighted the global recognition of DME Academy’s training expertise. Additionally, BE Basketball, a premier basketball program in Qatar and a valued partner of DME Academy, sent two athletes from Doha, Qatar, to benefit from the comprehensive training at the camp.
Reflecting on the remarkable success of the Summer Prep camp season, Matt Panaggio, Director of Basketball at DME Academy, shared, “Our goal is to create an environment where athletes can thrive both on and off the court. The Summer Prep camps embody our commitment to fostering growth, and it’s truly inspiring to witness the transformation of these young athletes over the course of the program.”
Beyond the basketball court, DME Academy’s dedication to comprehensive athlete development extended across sports. Baseball, Soccer, and Volleyball also stepped into the spotlight, hosting Summer Prep camps in July. The four camps welcomed over 150 athletes to DME’s campus, creating a melting pot of athletic talent and camaraderie.
The Summer Prep camps, while rooted in the pursuit of athletic excellence, evolved into much more than mere training sessions. They transformed into vibrant celebrations of sport, dedication, and the power of teamwork. As the athletes bid adieu to their summer training grounds, they carried with them not only enhanced skills but also a profound sense of belonging to a community united by their love for the game and their determination to be the best versions of themselves.
To be the first to know about DME’s Summer Prep camps in 2024, fill out the camp form here!
In the realm of high school girls basketball, one standout talent has been making waves in the recruiting arena. Hailing from Melbourne, Australia, Tabitha Betson, a remarkable 6’2” forward in the class of 2024 at DME Academy, has embarked on an awe-inspiring journey through the world of college recruitment. Her prowess on the court has attracted the attention of a long list of Division I programs, setting the stage for an exciting chapter in her athletic career.
Among the array of scholarship offers from over thirty prestigious institutions, Betson has meticulously curated a list of twelve prospective schools that have captured her interest. This list includes esteemed names like:
As the school year commences, Betson plans to embark on a series of visits to these institutions, with each step bringing her closer to the decision that will shape her future.
Beyond her elite basketball skills, Betson’s character shines through as an exceptional teammate and a natural leader. DME Academy’s coach, Mikey Panaggio, attests to her integral role within the team dynamics. Having earned her place as one of the select few returning players, Betson’s value as a team player is indisputable. Panaggio envisions her continued growth, as a leader both on and off the court, priming her for the challenges of the next level while propelling the team to new heights in the upcoming season.
As Betson navigates the intricate landscape of college programs, her discernment is focused on finding the perfect synergy between her playing style and her future team’s system. This meticulous approach extends to evaluating the team’s culture, goals, and how she fits into the program’s tapestry.
In the realm of international athletes transitioning to the American game, Betson defies convention. Her swift adaptation has caught the eye of her coach, who marvels at her journey. Mikey Panaggio said, “Tab’s well-earned recruitment and her remarkable transformation in just 10 months stand as a testament to her exceptional talent. She embodies the essence of a true post player, a rare find in the basketball world.”
It’s clear that Betson’s multifaceted excellence, remarkable talent, and natural leadership positions her as an invaluable asset to any team. As her narrative continues to unfurl, enthusiasts eagerly await Betson’s decision, pondering which fortunate program will have the privilege of welcoming her into their fold.
Interested in becoming a part of DME Academy’s nationally ranked girls basketball program? Click here.
Dominika Paurova, a DME Academy graduate (‘23), represented the Czech Republic at the 2023 FIBA Women’s Eurobasket tournament held in Tel Aviv, Israel from June 15-23.
At just 18 years old, the Czech Republic native was the second-youngest athlete competing in this year’s tournament, but that was no problem for Paurova. With 4 points, 3 rebounds, a steal and a block in the fourth quarter of their game against Greece, the 6’1” small forward helped her team advance to the quarterfinals.
The Czech Republic team finished seventh overall in the tournament with a 3-3 record, and the women’s team from Belgium took home the title with a win over Spain for their first-ever FIBA EuroBasket championship.
As Paurova continues to build on her impressive basketball career, the next stop along the way is Oregon State University. She joins the Beavers as one of three incoming freshmen for the upcoming 2023-24 season. Oregon State women’s basketball head coach, Scott Rueck, said of Paurova, “Beaver Nation will love the competitive and exciting nature she brings to the court, as well as her creativity on the offensive end.”
To learn more about how DME Academy can help take your basketball career to the next level, click here.
DME Academy girls basketball student-athletes, Ines Goryanova and Keira Scott, have both earned spots on the prestigious ESPNW Top 100 ranking list for 2024 recruits.
Goryanova, a point guard for DME, earned the 79th ranking spot on the list. This remarkable playmaker continues to receive offers from renowned Division I programs, but she is yet to make a decision regarding her future beyond DME.
Occupying the 89th spot on the list is Keira Scott, a versatile 6’2″ wing for DME. Scott had an abundance of Division I offers to choose from but ultimately decided to commit to Syracuse University once she completes her studies at DME Academy.
With their impressive ESPNW Top 100 rankings, Goryanova and Scott add to DME’s girls basketball program’s ‘HERstory’ of developing elite student-athletes. In the class of 2022, DME Academy had two players ranked in ESPNW’s Top 100, as well. Sydney Shaw, the now starting point guard for Auburn University ranked 50th, while University of Georgia forward, Amiya Evans, earned the 66th spot.
If you dream of becoming one of the best in the country, check out DME’s girls basketball program.
Daytona Beach, FL – On May 25, 2023, DME Academy and St. John’s Northwestern Academies (SJNA) announced an exciting new partnership between the two academic institutions.
Starting in the 2023-24 academic year, DME and SJNA will work together to amplify the sports program at St. John’s Northwestern in Delafield, Wisconsin. The joint venture kicks off with 11-year NBA veteran Wesley Person, currently at DME Academy in Daytona, Florida, bringing the successful DME basketball academy to SJNA. This move is the beginning of what both academies expect to be a deeper relationship whereby DME Academy will lead and grow more sports programs at the SJNA campus.
“We are so excited to partner with DME Academy,” said Bob Fine, President of SJNA. “They bring an instantly recognizable sports name to boost our already strong academic and athletic programs here at St. John’s Northwestern. Together with DME, the program has never been in safer hands, and the power of the two brands will provide our student-athletes with a pathway for success both on and off the court.”
The basketball brand of St. John’s Northwestern will be on show this summer at the 2023 NBA Draft by Brandin Podziemski ’21. The Lancer great is projected to be drafted in the first round and was named the West Coast Conference (WCC) Co-Player of the Year during his time at Santa Clara University. At SJNA, Podziemski racked up over 2,000 career points, was a three-time All-State honoree, and in 2021 he earned the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association’s Mr. Basketball, along with the Wisconsin Gatorade Player of the Year.
DME Academy has quickly grown its Daytona campus from 75 to 225 full-time student-athletes over the past three years, built on a reputation for delivering a world-class experience. DME will be bringing in its elite admissions and recruiting team, which features an international arm, experienced coaches, support staff, relationships, and pathway opportunities for all student-athletes.
On the court, DME also brings with them a proven history of preparing players to excel at the top levels of the game. Just this season, DME Academy alumni Keegan Murray was drafted No. 4 overall in the 2022 NBA Draft and has broken into the scene in a huge way, smashing the all-time record for made three-pointers by a rookie with 206.
“As DME continues to grow, it’s essential to find the right partners that share our vision for providing a better experience for student-athletes. SJNA has a beautiful campus, academic success, great facilities, committed staff, and the shared belief that together we can accomplish more. We are ready to collaborate and bring the best of both institutions to the table,” stated Dan Panaggio, Founder of DME Academy.
With the new partnership, student-athletes who choose to join the “DME at SJNA” program will also have the opportunity to tap into SJNA’s 140 years of academic excellence, including dual enrollment college and AP courses, STEM curriculum, leadership development, and a top-level aviation program.
To learn more or apply to be a part of the DME at SJNA partnership in Delafield, Wisconsin click here:
Founded in 1884, St. John’s Northwestern Academies develops young men and women inspired to become responsible citizens and moral and ethical leaders for the global community through excellence in Academics, Leadership Skills, Spiritual and Character Development, and well-being through Athletic Activities and Healthy Life Habits. For more information, visit sjnacademies.org.
###