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. 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.