MISSION STATEMENT
Pistons Academy aims to create impactful, memorable and positive experiences on and off the court that generate passion and love for the game of basketball through our various camps, clinics and leagues. Participants receive special access to Detroit Pistons perks and each program is led by experienced, professional instructors that deliver an outstanding youth basketball experience from start to finish. See you on the courts!
aaron smith
sR. Director of Youth Engagement & Development – Detroit Pistons
Office: (313) 771-7436
E-Mail: asmith@pistons.com
A graduate of the University of Michigan, Coach Aaron brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Detroit Pistons Youth initiatives. In addition to directing Pistons Academy and Jr. Pistons youth programs, he serves as a motivational speaker for the Detroit Pistons state-wide school assembly program. His positive message and personal story have positively impacted thousands of young student-athletes. Coach Aaron is also the in-game announcer for the Motor City Cruise as well as the boys varsity basketball coach at Royal Oak High School. His favorite all-time Pistons players are Isiah Thomas and Rick Mahorn.
follow coach aaron on instagram: @Coachaaron24
DJ BALLARD
OPERATIONS COORDINTOR OF YOUTH ENGAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT – DETROIT PISTONS
OFFICE: (313) 771-7436
E-MAIL: DBALLARD@PISTONS.COM
A Southfield native, DJ turned a walk-on opportunity into a standout career, earning a Division 1 scholarship to play basketball at Eastern Michigan University. Over six seasons, DJ not only excelled on the court but also earned Academic All-MAC Conference honors twice. With a Master’s in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s in Sport Management from Eastern Michigan, DJ combines academic rigor with a deep passion for the game, especially women’s basketball. Having grown up immersed in the sport through the Pistons Academy from ages 5 to 14, DJ is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of players.
follow coach Dj on instagram: @thedjballard
Nick Johnson
COORDINTOR OF YOUTH ENGAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT – DETROIT PISTONS
OFFICE: (313) 771-7436
E-MAIL: njohnson@PISTONS.COM
A Toledo native, and graduate of the University of Toledo, Coach Nick brings passion, experience, and attention to detail to the Pistons Academy and youth basketball. From playing at a young age, to being on staff, to assistant coaching for his local Special Olympics and Christian school teams, he has always been driven by inspiring student athletes and competing at the highest levels. He was a summer camp counselor for two seasons and has also held multiple positions with both the Pistons and Motor City Cruise in their Marketing and Game Presentation departments. His favorite Piston of all-time is Ben Wallace.
follow coach Nick on instagram: @_itznick_18
