This program creates an environment where students can thrive in the classroom, on the courts and in life. With former professional basketball player Dwayne “D-Train” McClain leading the way, student athletes aren’t just practicing how to shoot or dribble; they’re learning the game from someone who has lived it at the highest level. More importantly, they’re developing the necessary fundamentals that last long after the final buzzer—teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving.

The lessons reach far beyond basketball. Rooted in accountability and discipline, values made famous in the film Coach Carter, the academy requires students to keep their grades, GPAs, and SAT scores at strong levels in order to participate in extracurricular activities. Basketball becomes more than a sport; it becomes a motivator, a reward, and a powerful reminder that the focus and habits developed on the court can shape success in all aspects of life.

Dwayne McClain is a former professional basketball player whose journey began at Holy Name Central Catholic High School in Worcester, Massachusetts, where his talent and determination first set him apart as a student athlete. He went on to achieve historic success at Villanova University, playing a pivotal role in leading the Wildcats to the 1985 NCAA Basketball National Championship, beating Georgetown University in one of the most memorable games in college basketball history. “The D-Train” was the game high scorer, netting 17 points, respectively.

After winning a National Championship at Villanova University, Dwayne was drafted by the Indiana Pacers as the 27 th overall pick in the 1985 NBA draft. He went on to play professionally in Canada, France, Greece, Indonesia, the Philippines and Australia, where he is considered one of the best players to ever perform in the National Basketball League of Australia. His international experience not only sharpened his game but also gave him a global perspective on basketball development at the grassroot level.

The one consistency Dwayne was fortunate enough to receive at a young age was outstanding coaching at every level. From grade school to college, the coaches who taught him the game were not only outstanding coaches but incredible educators, teachers and role models. “The best way to give back the knowledge that was taught to me is to teach others” says Mr. McClain. Starting with NE Hoops Academy in the early 2000’s, coach McClain began instructing student athletes throughout New England, Pennsylvania and Australia. In 2009 while coaching at Northwood University as an assistant to Hall a Fame coach, Rollie Massimino, he took a coaching position with the JTAA organization in South Florida to reconnect with basketball at the grassroot level.

It came as no surprise when Billionaire Bill Koch was about to start a new high school in South Florida, that they were looking for the best educators, teachers, administrators and coaches, hiring Dwayne as the head coach of Oxbridge Academy of The Palm Beaches, where he demonstrated great leadership.

Today, coach McClain continues to bring his knowledge, passion, and championship mindset to student athletes throughout South Florida and beyond. His mission is to develop young minds both on and off the court, using basketball as a vehicle to teach discipline, teamwork and life skills. With decades of playing and coaching experience at the highest level, the D-Train continues to inspire our youth whether it’s in the classroom or on the courts.