In Their
Own Words
Parents, athletes, and alumni on what changed when they trained with Drop Zone — on the court, in the classroom, and long after the season ended.
“When people ask me to recommend a basketball trainer, Tony Reese is always my first recommendation.”
Even though we moved away from Florida several years ago, Tony has never stopped investing in her. He still regularly checks in, follows her progress, watches her games, and offers advice to help her continue growing as both a player and a young woman. As a parent, that's something I'll always appreciate.
“He didn't just train Lily for a few hours each week — he's helped shape her journey for years.”
Every Story
Families don't come to Drop Zone for drills. They come because their athlete needs someone in their corner who is thinking about the next ten years, not the next game.
Every athlete is held to academic standards that mirror the discipline required on the court, because eligibility is won in the classroom long before a coach makes an offer. Every athlete is paired with a mentor who has walked the road — former players, coaches, and community leaders invested in the next generation. And every athlete is taught that skills fade while character lasts.
That is why the relationships outlast the training. One family moved away from Florida years ago, and Coach Reese still checks in on their athlete's progress.
“Tony didn't just teach basketball skills — he built habits, established expectations, and developed her through a progressive training approach. He became a mentor. He spent just as much time talking about education, character, work ethic, leadership, and mindset as he did teaching basketball. Those conversations have been just as valuable as the hours spent in the gym.”
“Drop Zone didn't just make me a better player. They helped me see what I'm capable of off the court too.”
Write the Next One
Every story here started with a conversation — a parent who wanted more for their athlete than a better jump shot. Tell us about yours, and we'll walk you through what training, mentorship, and the college pathway actually look like at Drop Zone.
Already trained with us? We'd be honored to share your story — send it to dropzonenmfoundation@outlook.com and we'll add it here.