My 13-yr-old eats, sleeps, & breathes basketball. Nonstop training, studying the game. Just won AAU World Champs. He’s built for greatness.
Thank you for generously supporting Dexter in this year’s competition. Your support helps empower the V Foundation for Cancer Research and the Why Not You Foundation in their respective missions to save lives and empower today's youth to become tomorrow's leaders.
Dexter has been playing basketball since he could walk. He loves the fast pace and excitement of the game, along with the variety of skills it takes to excel. He has strong game intelligence and takes pride in his three-point shot, assists, and defensive abilities. Beyond the court, Dexter is deeply connected to basketball culture and thrives on the camaraderie of practicing and traveling with his team. The game brings him joy, challenge, and a strong sense of belonging.
Dexter’s no 1 inspiration is his dad, a former college and UK national team player who now trains and coaches him. He’s also inspired by Hall of Fame coach Bob Hurley, who has coached him since age 8. Dexter looks up to LeBron for leadership, Kobe for his Mamba Mentality, and Steph Curry for his shooting and creativity. These role models fuel his love for the game and push him to grow on and off the court.
One of the proudest moments was last week when Dexter and his team, United NJ, won the AAU Basketball World Championship D2 for 7th grade at ESPN Wide World of Sports in Orlando. They went 8-0, and in the final game, Dexter hit two clutch back-to-back threes in the last quarter to put his team ahead and seal the win. His calm under pressure and leadership in that moment showed how much he’s grown as a player.
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like Youth Athlete of the Year, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.