Daytona Beach, FL. DME Academy’s girls basketball standout Micaela Cavalcanti is heading home to Asunción, Paraguay, to represent Team Brazil at the 2025 South American U17 Women’s Championship. She will proudly carry both her country’s colors and the DME name on the international stage.
The South American U17 Women’s Championship, organized by FIBA Americas, brings together the top young players from across the continent. Teams from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Paraguay compete for regional dominance and a spot in the FIBA U18 Americas Championship.
This tournament is more than a competition. It’s a chance for athletes to showcase national pride, build confidence, and gain experience that shapes their future on and off the court.
Representing Brazil and DME Academy
Micaela Cavalcanti’s journey from Daytona Beach to Asunción reflects DME Academy’s mission to develop athletes who compete at the highest level. She balances life between an elite U.S. academy and international play, setting the standard for global student-athletes.
Her commitment, skill, and leadership make her a standout for both DME and Brazil’s U17 national team. Cavalcanti continues to prove that determination and focus open doors to international opportunity.
DME Academy is shaping athletes who compete on every stage. Its girls basketball program blends elite coaching, national competition, and complete player development — from strength and conditioning to academics and leadership.
Micaela Cavalcanti is the proof. As she returns to South America to represent Brazil, she carries both her nation’s pride and the DME spirit of excellence. Her path shows how commitment and the right training environment can take an athlete from Daytona Beach to the world stage.
For players ready to take their own next step, learn more about our DME Girls Basketball Program.
Daytona, FL. Daytona Beach, FL. DME Academy is proud to announce that Gigi Battle has been selected to participate in the 2025 Adidas All-American Camp in Ladera Ranch, California. This exclusive event brings together the nation’s top high school players to train, compete, and showcase their talent in front of college scouts and national media.
This recognition cements Battle’s place among the nation’s elite and reinforces DME Academy’s reputation as a premier destination for developing next-level basketball talent.
Currently ranked No. 32 on ESPN’s Top 100 (see her player profile here), Gigi Battle continues to prove why she’s one of the most dynamic forwards in high school basketball. Since arriving at DME Academy, she has elevated her game through discipline, strength, and a deep understanding of the sport.
Battle’s leadership, athleticism, and high basketball IQ have made her a cornerstone of DME’s girls basketball program. Her ability to compete against top national talent has earned her respect on and off the court.
The Adidas All-American Camp is a proving ground for future college stars. Participants receive elite instruction, advanced skill development, and the chance to compete against the country’s top prospects.
For Battle, this invitation marks another milestone on her path to the next level. She has already announced her commitment to the Indiana Hoosiers, joining one of the most competitive programs in women’s college basketball. Her journey reflects not only personal achievement but also the environment of excellence cultivated at DME Academy.
DME Academy is where serious players become elite athletes. With world-class coaching, advanced facilities, and a proven player-development system, DME prepares athletes to succeed at every level.
If you’re ready to take your game further, learn more about our DME Girls Basketball Program.
Daytona, FL. DME Academy’s very own Gigi Battle has taken the next big step in her basketball career by committing to Indiana University. As the No. 42 player in the nation and No. 1 player in the state of New Jersey, Gigi continues to break school records, leaving a lasting legacy at DME and positioning herself among the elite in high school basketball.
Gigi’s time at DME Academy has been nothing short of historic. Having already surpassed 1,000 career points and 500 rebounds, along with averaging 15.8 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. Gigi has established herself as a dominant force on the court. Her commitment to excellence and relentless work ethic embody what it truly means to be a DME athlete.
Gigi’s decision to commit to Indiana University marks a major milestone, not only for her but also for DME Academy. Under the leadership of head coach Teri Moren—who has built the Hoosiers into one of the nation’s top women’s basketball programs—Gigi will be stepping into a culture known for developing elite players and competing at the highest level of the Big Ten.
At DME, Gigi played a pivotal role in leading her team, contributing in high pressure matchups, and establishing herself as a reliable leader on and off the court. Her transition to Indiana offers the perfect stage to continue her growth, while also competing against top-tier opponents along with preparing to make an impact at the collegiate level.
Ready to Take Your Game to the Next Level?
Gigi Battle’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!
DME Academy Women’s Basketball will compete in the Grind Session Women’s Power Conference this season. The Grind Session is one of the premier high school basketball circuits, and DME enters with unfinished business after advancing to last year’s Grind Session championship final. The team went undefeated in the regular season before falling to Royal Crown School by a single point in the title game.
The Grind Session Women’s Power Conference is the top tier of the Grind Session, an elite winter circuit for prep and high school basketball programs. This invitation-only division includes 10 of the best teams from the United States and Canada. From November through March, programs compete in showcase events across North America, with results tracked in national standings.
The season concludes with a postseason championship in March. Games are broadcast on Tanager Sports TV and hosted at major venues across the U.S. and Canada. Learn more about the Grind Session here.
The roster features a strong backcourt led by Gigi Battle, the reigning Grind Session Player of the Year, and Chikae Desdunes, whose leadership and two-way play bring balance to the lineup. They are joined by Micaela Cavalcanit, Sther Ubaka, Sara Okeke, and Timani Harris.
DME Academy will face the following teams in the Grind Session Women’s Power Conference:
Academy of Central Florida
Albuquerque Prep
Example Academy
Fort Erie International Academy
Grind Prep
Hamilton Heights Christian (TN)
Legion Prep (TX)
Life Prep
Royal Crown (CAN)
DME Academy, located in Daytona Beach, Florida, is a premier training and educational institution for student-athletes. With elite coaching, world-class facilities, and a culture that builds both skill and character, DME prepares athletes for success at the next level and beyond.
Ready to elevate your game? Click here to learn more or to talk with a student advisor.
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. 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!
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.
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.
Tabitha Betson, a former standout at DME Academy, officially begins her collegiate basketball career with the Colorado Buffaloes. Recently, she made an immediate impact by earning the Big 12 Preseason Freshman of the Year honor. This prestigious title, voted on by conference coaches, reflects her talent as she transitions to the next level.
Standing at 6’2”, Betson hails from Melbourne, Australia. She was a highly sought-after recruit and received over 30 Division I offers from top programs. Ultimately, she chose Colorado, where she now plays a crucial role on the Buffaloes’ roster.
At DME Academy in Daytona Beach, Florida, Betson distinguished herself not only for her athletic skills but also for her leadership. As a McDonald’s All-American nominee, her drive and work ethic prepared her well for collegiate basketball.
In preseason training with the Colorado Buffaloes, Betson has quickly proven herself. As she moves from high school to college, her dedication and focus continue to shine. Coaches and teammates have recognized her hard work, which is expected to contribute significantly to the team’s success this season.
As the season approaches, Betson’s role on the Buffaloes signals great things for the program. She is set to be a key contributor as Colorado aims for success in the Big 12 Conference. The Buffaloes will play their first exhibition game on October 27 against Colorado Mines, followed by the season opener against Northern Colorado on November 7.
If you want to join DME Academy’s nationally ranked girls’ basketball program and learn from the elite coaching staff that shaped players like Tabitha Betson, click here to explore our program and see how you can be part of our winning tradition. For more information on the Colorado Buffaloes, visit their official athletics site.