leadership with purpose

Charles Lewis

Founder and Chief Executive

Coach Charles Lewis is a native of Jackson, Mississippi, and a proud product of the Jackson Public School District. Charles has been a visionary, committed and dedicated to youth development and empowerment through the game of basketball. He founded The Development Academy in obedience to a God-given vision to use the game to reach area youth. Being obedient has led to Coach Charles training some of the top players in the state and in the nation, including several collegiate and overseas professional basketball players.

Bigger than basketball, TDA has been able to encounter and impact hundreds, possibly thousands of youths throughout its tenure. Coach Lewis has over 8 years of experience as a basketball development specialist, and 3 years as a varsity assistant coach. He also played an instrumental role in helping to shape the vision of THE ARK as a hub for basketball-related programming.

Denzel Jones

Program Director, RSYBL

Coach Denzel has worked alongside Coach Charles Lewis for more than a decade, helping build TDA from its earliest days in the Hot Box. For many years, the two coached, trained, and mentored young athletes together, creating a foundation centered on development, discipline, and genuine relationships.

Known throughout the community as the “Shot Doctor,” Coach Denzel has extensive experience developing players and improving shooting fundamentals. He has also served as an assistant basketball coach at Hillcrest Christian School and Clinton Christian Academy. Within The Development Academy, he leads the Rising Stars Youth Basketball League, providing young athletes with a positive introduction to organized basketball while building their skills, confidence, teamwork, and love for the game.

Jordan Danberry

Program Director, TDA Hoops

Coach Jordan Danberry brings extensive experience as a player, coach, and athlete developer. Her basketball career includes a state championship at Conway High School, two NCAA National Championship appearances with Mississippi State University, and professional playing and coaching experience in Iceland.

Today, Coach Danberry uses her experiences to develop confident, disciplined, and well-rounded student-athletes. She has served as a head girls basketball coach in Jackson and currently leads the girls program at St. Andrew’s Episcopal School. Within The Development Academy, she directs TDA Hoops and oversees its competitive teams, player development, coaching, and overall program direction. Her mission is to create meaningful opportunities for young women to grow, compete, and prepare for success on and off the court.