From Playground Dreams to Prep School Visionary: Coach Dwayne Williams Opens All American Prep in Richmond, Texas

For Coach Dwayne Williams, the game of basketball has always been about more than just points and trophies. It’s been about perseverance, faith, and opportunity—values he’s now passing on to the next generation of student-athletes through the opening of All American Prep, a new basketball-focused academy under the Texas Sports Academy (TSA) umbrella.

This year, Williams—who brings with him over 25 years of basketball experience as a player, coach, and mentor—opened the Richmond campus alongside his wife Monique, lead guide Chase Theard, and their sons D.J. and Demari. D.J. is a former standout at Richmond Foster High School, while Demari currently plays at Houston Christian University. The new academy expands on Williams’ long-standing commitment to developing both athletes and students.

All American Prep integrates athletics with academics using the Alpha School educational model - similar to The Bennett School that provides training for the sport of baseball. This second TSA campus in the Houston area gives student-athletes a flexible, personalized learning environment that accommodates training and travel schedules. It’s a model designed for serious players who want to elevate their skills without sacrificing their education.

“We want to create an environment where young athletes can chase their dreams on the court while building character and academic discipline off it,” Williams said. “That balance is what prepares them not just for college basketball—but for life.”

Williams’ own story is a testament to that philosophy. Unlike most of his peers, he never played organized basketball before college. His journey began in the neighborhood parks, where he honed his skills with a dream of playing at the next level. That dream took a fateful turn when he met an assistant coach from Southern Nazarene University at a Fellowship of Christian Athletes camp. The meeting led to a tryout—and eventually, a roster spot.

Through relentless work ethic and countless hours of practice, Williams became a Division I NAIA First Team All-American, the Sooner Athletic Conference Player of the Year, and set the Southern Nazarene University single-game scoring record with 44 points. He finished his college career as one of the program’s top 10 all-time scorers, with more than 1,400 points. His playing career continued professionally in the USBL, IBA, and internationally.

After hanging up his professional jersey, Williams turned his focus to coaching and youth development. Since 2009, his All-American Basketball Camp and AAU programs have helped hundreds of players refine their skills and earn college opportunities. His dedication to mentorship—through both athletics and faith—has become his lasting legacy in the Houston basketball community.

Now, with the launch of All American Prep, Williams is building something that bridges his past and future: a home for athletes with big dreams and the drive to achieve them.

“I was given a chance when I didn’t have the traditional path,” Williams reflected. “All American Prep is about giving that same chance to others—because talent can come from anywhere.”

For more information about All American Prep and enrollment opportunities, visit the All American Prep website.