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.

One of the Top Guards in the Class of 2025

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.

National Honors and International Experience

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.

From DME to the ACC

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.

Looking to elevate your game?

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.

More than 70 players received an MVP award and were placed on this year’s All-Tournament teams!

The 5th Annual Beach & Ball Classic, powered by Halifax Health, wrapped up on Sunday evening after an exciting five days of action with over 73 games spanning the tournament. DME Academy hosted more than 50 teams, from as close as Orlando, to as far away as Rome and Canada. 

Each game featured a match-up between two top-talent teams and the most valuable player was named at the end of each game. Over 70 players took home a unique medal to recognize their achievements on the court.

At the end of the tournament, athletes who exhibited outstanding talent were given the honor of being named to the Classic All-Tournament Teams. 

Thank you to all the players and coaches who made this tournament a success. DME Academy is looking forward to an even bigger turnout at the next Beach & Ball Classic!

Check out the list of athletes named to the Classic All-Tournament Teams.

1st Team

2nd Team

3rd Team

Honorable Mention

Regional Division

For more information on the DME Academy boy’s basketball program and how you can be recruited or attend a camp, click here.