Our coaches
coach chris lehman
Founder/ CEO of Gladiator Basketball. Coach Chris' passion for basketball is undeniable. After a 15-year playing career, he turned to coaching. He co-founded 5 Star Sports Academy, in which he has coached over 8,000 basketball players. He co-founded the Lakes Jr. Eagles girls feeder program and coaches for St. Gilbert's school in Grayslake. Chris' knowledge and communication allow his players to grow as individuals on and off the court.
Coach Destiny (Dez) Dickson
Coach Dez has an incredible passion for coaching basketball. He played throughout highschool and has been coaching since 2019. Coach Dez specializes in training, conditioning and working with kids individually. He connects and truly cares about every athlete he coaches
Coach Gabby Swinson
After playing basketball for many years and being a former Division-1 and Semi-Pro basketball player, I am happy to be in the position to coach and give back to the next generation. My goal is to push every player to become the best players they can be. I am excited for what the future holds with Gladiator Basketball.
Coach Walter Puterbaugh
Coach Walter cares for every player he coaches and makes sure that everyone is getting involved. He has been coaching for two seasons and loves his time with the Gladiator players. Coach Walter teaches the youngest generations as well to prepare them for travel and school basketball.
Coach Norie
Coach Norie has a heart of gold and it shines through in everyone she connects with. She thrives at working with the kids individually and her knowledge of the fundamentals gives every player she coaches at building block of knowledge. Coach Norie has been on the Gladiator staff since the conception and also coaches her son’s 5th grade team.
Coach Ava
Coach Ava has unfortunately had to deal with major injuries that have halted her playing career (for now). However, this gave her the ability to make her mark with Gladiator Basketball. Ava is such a genuine, good hearted person, who helps the Gladiators in many ways. Coaching a drill to working the scores table to scheduling on GameChanger, Ava brings much to the staff.
coach brent jones
Coach Jones played high school and college level basketball and has been coaching since 2019. He was also an all-state track athlete and has also coached 6 seasons of high school track & field specializing in jumps & sprints. His favorite aspect of coaching is helping kids build self-confidence through sports.
Coach donte N. Bland
Coach Donte played high school basketball in Cleveland, OH. He went on to play while in the military. He went on to coach at Kinnick High School in Yokosuka, Japan. He ran the Ultimate Hoops program in Vernon Hills, where he coached 6th to 10th grade teams.
Coach Donte believes basketball is about competing, not against others, but against the player you were yesterday. At the end of the day, basketball is a game, and games are meant to be enjoyed. If you’re not having fun, you’re not playing right.
