In the world of high school basketball, few names generate as much buzz as Jerry Easter Jr. Standing tall at 6’5” and weighing in at 190 lbs, this junior combo guard has become a beacon of talent in Toledo, Ohio. His smooth offensive game and ability to score with ease have drawn comparisons to some of the greats, leading many to wonder: Is Jerry Easter the next big thing out of Toledo?

Easter’s offensive prowess is undeniable. He has a rare combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ that allows him to dominate on the court. Whether he’s driving to the basket, pulling up for a mid-range jumper, or draining threes from beyond the arc, Easter makes scoring look effortless. His agility and ball-handling skills enable him to navigate through defenses seamlessly, making him a nightmare matchup for any opponent.

What sets Easter apart is his ability to perform under pressure. In critical moments, he rises to the occasion, often carrying his team on his back. His clutch performances have not only secured victories but have also solidified his reputation as a go-to player in high-stakes situations.

Easter’s talents have not gone unnoticed. He has garnered offers from almost every major college in the country, spanning all the major conferences. Coaches and scouts alike see in him the potential for greatness, recognizing that his well-rounded game would make him an asset to any college team. His ability to adapt and excel in various roles on the court makes him an ideal fit for any system, be it a fast-paced offense or a more methodical, half-court setup.

But the conversation doesn’t stop at the collegiate level. Many see a future NBA star in Jerry Easter Jr. His trajectory, if maintained, is unmatched. The key to his success will be staying focused and on the right path. With the right guidance and continued dedication, there’s no ceiling to what Easter can achieve. His work ethic, combined with his natural talent, positions him well for a future in professional basketball.

Toledo has a rich history of producing basketball talent, and Jerry Easter appears poised to add his name to the list of greats. His journey is one to watch, as he has the potential to not only leave a mark on college basketball but to make a significant impact in the NBA. For now, fans and scouts will continue to marvel at his performances, eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the story of Jerry Easter.

In an exclusive interview, we sat down with NeShaun Coleman, former Ohio State guard, to discuss his journey from a celebrated player to a dedicated coach. Coleman shares his experiences, challenges, and insights into the world of AAU basketball coaching.

Q. Can you describe your journey from being a star player at St. John’s and Ohio State to becoming an AAU coach?

I started coaching AAU basketball right after I graduated college in 2000. The youth that I coach were at the very beginning stages of learning basketball. I went on to start coaching with Dennis Hopson when he started Hopson Elite in Columbus. After that, I coached with All Ohio Red in the Nike EYBL Circuit. I took a few years off and switched over to coach my daughter in the second grade.

Q: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during this transition?

The biggest challenge was transitioning my passion for playing to putting the same amount into coaching. The second challenge was figuring out that sometimes I held these young people to the standard of a high major Division 1 basketball player, and that was not fair to them. I had to learn how to develop talent and bring the best out of each individual.

Q: How has your perspective on the game changed now that you are coaching rather than playing?

I don’t believe that my perspective has changed at all. I have a saying that I learned when I was young living in Racine, Wisconsin before I moved to Toledo: “Hard Work Beats Talent If Talent Doesn’t Work Hard.”

Q: How has coaching in the AAU system reignited or enhanced your passion for basketball?

I want every young person I coach that has the goal of playing college basketball to achieve that goal. That orange ball has done a lot for me, taken me places, and introduced me to people that others would dream of meeting. Former President Bill Clinton and Nelson Mandela, just to name a few. So, if this is what my players want, it’s my job to do everything in my power to help them get there.

Q:  What aspects of coaching do you find most rewarding

Teaching. To watch a player retain what I teach them, apply and perfect the skill. Nothing is better than seeing progress and improvement.

Q: Do you believe that being a lifelong student of the game is essential for becoming a great coach? Why or why not?

I believe it’s part of it. I also believe that playing can be a big part of becoming a great coach along with a number of other things. I feel like your players have to buy into what you’re teaching and be disciplined enough to execute it. It’s your job as a coach to prepare them for that. No excluding all the other hats you wear: teacher, father, mother, counselor, Uber driver, etc.

Q: How do you stay updated with the latest coaching strategies and basketball trends?

I’m way more lucky than most coaches. I have a bunch of former and current coaches that I keep in close contact with who are and have coached on every level. I have current and former players that I keep in close contact with. The internet is a beautiful thing. Basketball is universal. It’s played all over the world. People post everything from plays to drills. Everyone borrows from everyone.

Q: What do you see as the primary benefits of the AAU system for young athletes?

Exposure!!!! If I am a college coach, I can see a number of potential recruits in one weekend from 4th-11th grade and sometimes 12th grade, instead of going to a high school game and seeing maybe 2-3 players. This is why the majority of the open periods for colleges to recruit is during the spring and summer.

Q: How does the AAU system help in the development of players both on and off the court?

It teaches them how to compete at a high level consistently, or you can be embarrassed. It teaches how to deal with adversity. Basketball is unlike other sports because you can’t hide behind a mask like football. Everyone sees your emotions and body language. You have to control those emotions the best you can.

Q: Can you share a memorable moment from your time as an AAU coach that stands out to you?

There is no way I can just pick one. I’ve coached so many players at so many levels. My favorite thing about coaching AAU to date is coaching my 13-year-old daughter and seeing her face when I run into people I know who emphasize that they felt I was a really good player but more importantly how much love they show me about being a good dude.

Q: How do you handle the pressure of coaching young athletes who look up to you and have high expectations?

I think it’s the opposite. The players never saw me play, but their parents have. They have to get accustomed to how high my expectations are for them. I respect the game too much not to put my all into coaching.

Q: What is your coaching philosophy, and how do you implement it with your team?

Defense, effort, and being coachable. Sometimes the ball just won’t go in the basket, but you can always find a way to contribute to your team being victorious. That starts and ends with defense, effort, and being coachable.

Q: How do you balance teaching fundamental skills with allowing players the freedom to express their creativity on the court?

Teaching fundamentals and doing skill development isn’t the hard part. Unlocking the creative part of the brain is difficult. The youth these days are sometimes overtrained. They don’t play enough pick-up ball anymore. In my day, we would go from Smith Park to the Pond to play.

Q: In your opinion, what qualities make a successful basketball player in today’s game?

Being coachable, working hard, and trusting the process. Every player develops at a different pace. The key is not to peak. For the player to keep improving and becoming more consistent.

Q: How do you foster a positive team culture and ensure that all players feel valued and supported?

By having a good group of parents and players. I personally will pass on a great player if I don’t have a good vibe from the parents. I try to locate the parent to see how they are acting in the stands. If they are negative, if they are trying to override the coach, if the player is listening to their parent instead of the coach. I feel like I can help a player improve. I can’t change an adult and how they behave.

Q: Can you talk about a player you’ve coached who made significant improvements and what that process was like?

I can’t talk about a specific player. There have truly been too many, and I’m still coaching.

Q: What advice would you give to young athletes aspiring to play at the collegiate level or beyond?

IT’S A SACRIFICE. If you’re not ready to sacrifice a whole lot, if you’re not ready to work harder than you ever have, if you are not mentally tough, if you cannot handle adverse situations on a regular basis, then rethink it. The expectations are high. The pressure is no joke. If you like or love the game, it is super difficult. If you are truly in love with the game, then the sky is the limit.

Q: How do you manage the different personalities and skill levels within your team?

I have been so blessed because I have had some phenomenal parents. Parents can make or break a team. When parents and players are realistic, when they are all on the same page, when the players really like/love each other, and when they trust the process and the coach… It’s BEAUTIFUL!! There’s not enough space to explain what it’s like when things go the other way!

Q: What are your future goals and aspirations as a coach?

I only have a few more years left. I feel like I have given back in so many ways to the game that has given me so much. My ultimate goal is at the end to have every player on my team receive a scholarship to play basketball so I can travel to watch them play in college. Hopefully, their schedules don’t conflict with my daughter’s!

NeShaun Coleman’s dedication and passion for coaching shine through as he continues to inspire and guide young athletes. His journey from player to coach is a testament to his love for the game and his commitment to helping others achieve their dreams.

JoJuan Armour’s life in football is a testament to his dedication both on and off the field. His journey from a high school star in Toledo to an NFL and CFL player, and now a community leader and coach, exemplifies his commitment to the sport and his city.

JoJuan Armour began his football career at Central Catholic High School in Toledo, Ohio. As a linebacker and running back, Armour quickly made a name for himself. He was a two-time first-team All-City selection and received second-team Division I All-Ohio honors. His outstanding performances led him to be named Toledo City League Player of the Year in 1994, marking him as one of the top high school athletes in the region.

Continuing his football journey, Armour attended Miami University in Ohio, where he solidified his reputation as a formidable linebacker. During his college career, he was a three-time All-MAC selection and won the MAC Defensive Player of the Year award twice. Armour amassed 396 total tackles and 24.5 sacks, culminating in a third-team All-American selection in his senior year. His achievements at Miami University set the stage for his professional career.

Armour was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the seventh round of the 1999 NFL Draft. He found more playing time with the Cincinnati Bengals, where he played from 1999 to 2002. Following his NFL stint, Armour transitioned to the Canadian Football League (CFL), where he played for the BC Lions, Hamilton Tiger-Cats, and Calgary Stampeders. He capped his professional playing career with a Grey Cup victory with Calgary in 2008 before retiring in 2010.

Even during his professional career, Armour remained committed to giving back to his hometown of Toledo. He organized football camps for young athletes, providing them with opportunities to learn from a professional and gain valuable skills. His camps focused not just on athletic development but also on fostering discipline, teamwork, and a strong work ethic among the youth.

After retiring from professional football, Armour continued his community involvement by working closely with the city of Toledo and the Mayor’s office on various initiatives. One of his significant contributions was his involvement was being the leader Against Gun Violence. Armour’s work in this area focuses on reducing gun violence and creating safer environments for young people in Toledo. By leveraging his influence and experience, he has helped shape programs that aim to provide positive alternatives and support for at-risk youth.

In his post-playing career, Armour has transitioned into coaching, bringing his extensive knowledge and experience to the next generation of athletes. He served as a defensive lineman coach at Whitmer High School in Toledo, the Quality Control Coach – Defense for the University of Toledo, served as an assistant coach under Mark Philmore before being named head coach at Reynoldsburg High School. Armour’s coaching philosophy emphasizes character development, academic achievement, and community involvement alongside athletic excellence.

His dedication to coaching and community service has not gone unnoticed. Armour was nominated for the Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year Award, an honor that recognizes high school coaches who demonstrate exceptional leadership, integrity, and a commitment to player health and safety.

JoJuan Armour’s journey from high school standout to professional athlete and community leader is a testament to his unwavering dedication to football and his hometown of Toledo. His contributions on the field are matched by his efforts to make a positive impact off the field, through coaching, community service, and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of young people. Armour’s legacy is one of perseverance, leadership, and a deep commitment to giving back to the community that shaped him.

Through his work, JoJuan Armour continues to inspire and influence countless young athletes and community members, demonstrating that true success lies in using one’s talents and opportunities to benefit others. His story is a powerful example of how sports can be a vehicle for positive change and community development.

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