OTR CIRCUIT PROGRAM IN SPOTLIGHT

Charlotte Aces – Charlotte, North Carolina

For more than three decades, the Charlotte Aces have been one of the most respected grassroots basketball programs in North Carolina. Founded in March of 1991, the program has built a reputation for developing talent, creating opportunities for young athletes, and using basketball as a positive influence within the community.

Today, the program continues that tradition under the leadership of Coach Kevin Ligon, who helps guide the next generation of Aces players as they compete on the travel circuit and pursue opportunities at the next level.

Origins of the Program

The Charlotte Aces began as a youth basketball league designed to give inner-city kids a structured environment through sports. The goal was simple: provide an outlet where kids could compete, stay active, and build discipline through basketball.

Early on, the program organized an All-Star game featuring the best players from each youth team, which helped generate excitement within the local basketball community. After seeing the success of the league and the level of talent in the area, the program registered a team to compete in AAU basketball the following spring.

In their first year competing, the team won several tournaments and quickly established itself as a competitive program in the region.

A Mission Beyond Basketball

From the beginning, the Charlotte Aces were built around a purpose that went far beyond basketball.

The program was created during a time when many communities were dealing with the impact of the War on Drugs, and organizers wanted to provide a positive outlet for young athletes. Basketball became that opportunity.

The mission was to keep kids on the court rather than ending up in the courtroom, giving them structure, mentorship, and a place to grow both on and off the floor.

Charlotte Roots

Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, the Aces have become a staple of the city’s grassroots basketball culture.

For over 30 years, the program has helped develop players across multiple generations. From youth leagues to travel basketball, the Aces have served as a pathway for athletes looking to showcase their abilities and pursue opportunities at the collegiate level.

Alumni Success

The program’s long-standing impact can be seen through its alumni. Over the years, many players who came through the Charlotte Aces have gone on to compete at the collegiate and professional levels.

Notable alumni include:

Ebuka Izundu – University of Miami

Vincent Grier – University of Minnesota

Grant Williams – Charlotte Hornets / NBA

Chris Oliver – Radford University

Jeremy Good – Mount St. Mary’s University

Ricky Clemons – University of Missouri

In total, more than 350 players have gone on to play college basketball after coming through the Charlotte Aces program.

Players to Watch – 17U

The Charlotte Aces 17U group will feature a couple players to keep an eye on this season after strong high school campaigns.

6’0 2026 Deshawn Coulter is coming off a strong season at Victory Christian, bringing toughness and steady guard play to the backcourt. Coulter is a tough, steady guard who controls the pace, gets downhill, and competes on both ends of the floor.

6’5 2028 Jackson Reed also had a strong season at Lincoln Charter, showcasing size and versatility that should translate well to the On the Radar circuit. Versatile wing with good size who can handle the ball, score from multiple spots, and impact the game with his length.

The Legacy Continues

More than 30 years after the program began, the Charlotte Aces continue to impact players throughout the Charlotte area.

With a strong foundation, a history of producing college talent, and leadership focused on development, the program remains an important part of the region’s grassroots basketball scene.

From Charlotte gyms to the national stage, the Aces legacy continues to grow.