Our Vision

E: Elevate 

L: Leadership

I: Integrity 

T: Teamwork

E: Execute

To develop skilled, confident, disciplined players by emphasizing fundamentals and teamwork. While winning is a goal of the organization, we prioritize player development over short-term success. Basketball is more than a sport, it is a tool to teach valuable life lessons, including leadership, resilience, and respect.

Our team of experienced coaches are dedicated to helping your athlete reach their full potential. Their extensive basketball training provides athletes with basketball IQ at all levels and instill local traditions. They are eager to develop athletes on & off the court by raising the bar and demanding excellence in every setting.

 John is a retired Army Veteran who served our country for 20 years. He is currently a Coach & Athletic Coordinator for Lake Dallas Middle School. John supported the idea of starting Lion Elite based on his experience as a school coach. Year after year, he witnessed the lack of basketball fundamentals and IQ among his prospective players. His mission is to provide athletes with the necessary tools to become a successful basketball player and teach the importance of hard work and effort. 

Kristen has over 25 years of business experience with a degree in accounting.  An entrepreneur at heart, this business venture was personal. She founded Lion Elite to bridge the gap between high-quality training and an affordable program. Her mission is to invest in all athletes, regardless of skill level by providing effective basketball development that meets each athlete where they are in their athletic journey. She believes true growth includes building confidence, skill and character.

***Coming Soon

Gabe is a Ponder alumni from the Class of 2016. A talented multi-sport athlete, he excelled in competitive football, baseball & basketball. He helped lead the Lions to a successful football  playoff run in 2014. Through his years of competition, Gabe developed a deep understanding of teamwork, discipline and leadership. His passion for coaching began while volunteering with Ponder's youth league. Drawing from his extensive basketball background, he now focuses on developing athletes and helping them reach their full potential.

John "JR" Sweeden is a Ponder alumni from the Class of 2021. A dedicated multi-sport athlete, he competed on both school and club teams, where he developed a strong work ethic and love for competition. He has an undeniable passion for working with young athletes in helping them be the best they can be. Known for his compassionate leadership, John "JR" consistently lifts up his athletes and encourages them every step of their journey. He expects nothing but excellence from each of his players and they deliver.

Brady is a Ponder alumni from the Class of 2016. In 2014, he sealed the win for the Lions at the State Championship. He went on to play competitive basketball with a national travel team. After high school, Brady continued his basketball career at East Texas A&M, where he deepened his knowledge of the game at a higher level. He began coaching as an assistant for Ponder's youth program, where his passion for player development took shape.

Cameron is a Ponder alumni from the Class of 2015. A standout multi-sport athlete, he competed in both baseball and basketball at the club level. He played a key role in securing the win for Ponder in the 2014 State Championship in Austin. Known for his exceptional basketball IQ, Cameron brings a strategic mindset and deep understanding of the game to his athletes. His ability to analyze, teach and motivate players make him an invaluable part of Lion Elite. 

Cooper is a Krum basketball alumni. As a former player, he brings deep court knowledge and a high basketball IQ. Coach Barksdale has been with the program from the beginning. He started out helping out where ever needed. In the Fall, he transitioned into a Head Coach role. His 6th grade team has grown and won two championships this Winter.