Dru Joyce III is the son of Dru Joyce II. Dru Joyce II, affectionately known as “Coach Dru,” stands as a basketball visionary whose impact extends far beyond the court. Born on July 26, 1955, in East Liverpool, Ohio, Coach Dru’s journey from a career in sales to becoming a coaching legend is a testament to his dedication, keen eye for talent, and commitment to shaping not just athletes but individuals destined for success.
Advertisement
Early Life and Career
After graduating from Ohio University in 1978 with a degree in Business Administration, Coach Dru embarked on a successful sales career with Hunt-Wesson Foods in Pittsburgh, PA. In 1984, he and his family relocated to Akron, Ohio, marking the beginning of a transformative chapter in his life.
Image Credit: Jim Ruymen/UPI |
Credit: UPI
The Birth of a Basketball Legacy
Coach Dru’s coaching prowess emerged in 1995 when he began coaching his son, Dru Joyce III, affectionately known as “Little Dru.” Little did he know that this journey would lead him to discover exceptional basketball talent within his community. At the Summit Lake Recreation Center, Coach Dru spotted a 10-year-old boy named LeBron James, a moment that would alter the course of basketball history.
Under Coach Dru’s guidance, Little Dru and LeBron, along with teammates Sian Cotton and Willie McGee, formed the foundation of what would be celebrated as the “Fab Five.” Coach Dru’s impact was pivotal in fostering their growth as remarkable basketball players.
Advertisement
Championships and National Recognition
In 1999, Coach Dru assumed the role of assistant coach for the St. Vincent-St. Mary boys basketball team under NCAA coach Keith Dambrot. The following years saw the “Fab Five” achieving the 2000 and 2001 Division III State Basketball Championships. In 2003, they secured the Division II Ohio State Boys Basketball Championship and were crowned National Champions by USA Today.
Coach Dru’s leadership was not confined to high school basketball; he took the initiative to host an annual AAU basketball tournament, originally named the King James Shooting Stars and later renamed the Dru Joyce Classic. This tournament has grown into one of the top 5 youth AAU basketball tournaments in the United States.
Legacy and Continued Influence
Currently serving as the head basketball coach at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in Akron, OH, Coach Dru remains committed to shaping the next generation of basketball stars. He also leads the Northeast Ohio Basketball Association and founded the Dru Joyce Classic, demonstrating his enduring influence on the sport.
Beyond the Court: “Beyond Championships”
In April 2015, Coach Dru shared his insights and wisdom with the world through his book, “Beyond Championships: A Playbook for Winning at Life.” The book not only reflects on the triumphs on the basketball court but also imparts valuable life lessons. The foreword, a testament to the enduring bond forged through basketball, is penned by none other than his former player, LeBron James.
Leave a Reply