CAMP DIRECTOR

Maria Laterza brings a wealth of global basketball experience to Hoops & Heritage Global Society.

A former Italian National Team Member (2015) Italian League Champion (2016) Maria transitioned into basketball operations with the NBA League Office, where she managed elite international development camps across the world. She played a key role in launching the NBA Academy Women's Program and has worked closely with WNBA, NCAA, and top global coaches to impact the next generation of athletes.

With her passion for player development, leadership, and international basketball, Maria will lead the charge in creating a world-class experience for all Hoops & Heritage Global Society campers and their families.

Elemantary School Cordinator

Jason Coleman brings a wealth of basketball experience and leadership to the Hoops & Heritage Society Camp. A Hall of Fame inductee at Bishop Maginn High School and a standout at LeMoyne College, he was a 4-year starter, 3-year captain, and a 1,500-point scorer. 

As the Director of Garden State Bounce, Jason has led multiple AAU teams to national championships and was named the 2024 AAU Coach of the Year. 

Beyond the court, he is dedicated to youth development, volunteering at Northern Valley Church and Community Center. His passion for mentoring young athletes makes him an invaluable part of the camp.

Player Development Director

Joining the Hoops & Heritage Camp as Player Development Specialist is Oz Cross, Executive Director of the New York Rens.

A proven leader in grassroots basketball, Oz brings years of experience developing top talent. His journey includes serving as an assistant coach at St. John's University, where he played a pivotal role in player development and recruitment.

Oz has helped develop a plethora of talent ranging from NCAA Freshman Dylan Harper to NBA players, Thomas Bryant, Precious Achiuwa and Dom Barlow.

His dedication to nurturing athletes both on and off the court makes him a vital addition to the Hoops & Heritage Global Society.

Middle School Coordinator

Jay Smith is a rising coaching talent with a passion for teaching the game and empowering the next generation. Currently serving as the Assistant Varsity Coach at Rye Country Day School and Head Coach of the Rens 17U EYCL team.

Jay helped lead his squad to the 2024 Made Hoops 16U Summer Championship, one of the premier grassroots tournaments in the country.

Known for his deep knowledge of playing styles, techniques, and team dynamics, Jay is addicted to learning the game and sharing that knowledge with young athletes. His dedication to player development and understanding of how the game should be played make him an invaluable leader at Hoops & Heritage Camp.

Skills & Athletic Performance

With experience spanning player development and elite coaching, Goran serves as the Director of Skills & Performance at Hoops & Heritage Society Camp.

As a former 16U and 18U Macedonian National Team player, he has coached across all youth categories and was an assistant coach in the Macedonian First League.

Specializing in skill development and performance training, he brings a deep understanding of the game and a commitment to helping young athletes reach their full potential.

His expertise ensures that every player at the camp technically and physically improves their game.

Academic Liaison and Life Skills Cordinator

Jesse Shapiro is a veteran youth basketball coach with over 20 years of experience developing student-athletes in New York City.

As the co-founder and co-director of Rens United, he has been instrumental in expanding the program from 3rd to 11th grade, creating opportunities for athletes to compete in top-tier events like the Made Hoops Circuit and Nike EYCL.

Beyond coaching, Jesse has leveraged his extensive network to help countless players gain admission to elite prep and high schools while guiding over 150 student- athletes through the college recruitment process.

His track record includes mentoring athletes who have gone on to play at numerous top programs such including, John Hopkins, Siena, Fordham University, and the University of Chicago.

Instructor and Speaker

Jay Joyner, founder of Pinnacle Sports Group (PSG), brings over two decades of experience in college basketball, including leadership as a Division 1 Head Coach.

With a deep passion for athlete development, he transitioned from coaching to sports marketing, creating PSG to provide athletes with the resources they need to succeed beyond the game. His agency specializes in NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities, brand partnerships, and long-term career planning, helping athletes maximize their potential on and off the court.

PSG also hosts high-level sports events, enhancing player exposure and community engagement. Jay’s commitment to mentorship and strategic career development makes him a driving force in shaping the future of athlete empowerment.

Director of Camp Operations & Family Experience

Denise is a career administrative professional with 25 years of experience in supporting senior-level executives in global financial institutions.

Currently at Goldman Sachs for over 18 years, Denise is Highly efficient with excellent organization, communication and interpersonal skills. She is a proud mother of 3 children - 2 whom are student athletes currently in middle/high school.

Denise has served as an Assistant Program Director at 2 NYC Elite AAU Basketball Programs.

Skills and Development

Adam Maldonado brings over 12 years of grassroots coaching experience to the Hoops & Heritage Camp, shaping young athletes both on and off the court. A student of the game with a passion for teaching,

Adam played a pivotal role in the rejuvenation of Our Savior Lutheran High School's basketball program during his time as Head Coach. For the past three years, he has been a foundational piece of the Rens United coaching staff, serving as Head Coach across multiple age groups in the middle school division.

Adam's dedication to developing the next generation and sharing his deep basketball knowledge makes him an essential part of our camp community.