Derrick Lang’s journey from being an NCAA and professional basketball player to the founder of the Swiss Preparatory Sports Academy (SPSA) NBA Basketball School in Lausanne , with Geneva location coming in 2025 is nothing short of inspiring. His path, marked by passion, resilience, and a deep commitment to nurturing young sport talent, is a testament to how sports can transform lives both on and off the court.
Born and raised in the heart of Oklahoma, he was an Oklahoma All- Stater, Derrick’s collegiate basketball journey began to rocket upwards at The University of The Incarnate Word, where he quickly established himself as a standout player. His time as the leading scorer at his University was a significant milestone, but it was the summers spent playing against NBA players and top-tier overseas athletes that fueled his ambition to play at the professional level. Watching the San Antonio Spurs play in his college city further solidified his passion, offering him a firsthand experience of basketball at its highest level.
Derrick’s professional career took him across the globe, playing in the USA, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, and Switzerland. These international experiences not only broadened his perspective but also deeply influenced his coaching philosophy. “The cultural aspects of living in different countries were all very unique,” Derrick reflects. Breaking down language barriers and coming together through our shared love of the game was unreal. Coaches from all over the world, including Venezuela, brought their unique touch, proving that passion for the sport is stronger than words“
Bridging cultures and breaking down language barriers to share the same passion and inspiration for basketball was an incredible experience.” Coaches from diverse backgrounds, including Venezuela, Argentina, Turkey, and the USA together, showing that no matter where we come from, our love for the sport unites us all. He says. “Great coaches know how to communicate and adapt their teaching to suit their players’ learning styles. It’s about building relationships and enhancing confidence.” Derrick’s coaching philosophy is rooted in these lessons, emphasizing communication, adaptability, and a deep understanding of each player’s unique strengths.
However, Derrick’s aspirations extended beyond just being a professional athlete. “I always knew I wanted to own my gym and teams in some way, shape, or form,”Derrick recalls. His professional career allowed him to spend time with team owners, where he gained invaluable insights into the business side of basketball. This experience planted the seeds for what would eventually become his passion for sports management and his commitment to developing young talent.
Derrick Lang has worked with professional coaches who have had a significant impact on his life as a player :Michael Brooks 🇺🇸– NBA, Team: Union Neuchatel 🇨🇭, Helio Rubens Garcia 🇧🇷, Brazil’s most decorated coach,Team: Sesi Franca Brazil 🇧🇷, Coach Daniel Maffei 🇦🇷 ,Team: Cancun Pinheros 🇲🇽, University Coache Lou Gudino 🇺🇸 NCAA Coach currently at Ball State. Andrea’s Wagner 🇩🇪, Team: Bayern Munich / Nordlingen 🇩🇪, Hakan Demir 🇹🇷 , Team: Sion Herens🇨🇭
In 2021, Derrick embarked on an exciting journey by founding the Swiss Preparatory Sports Academy (SPSA), driven by a bold mission to deliver outstanding training and exceptional service in the youth sports sector.
In 2021, Derrick founded the Swiss Preparatory Sports Academy (SPSA) with a clear mission: to provide excellent training and top-notch service within the youth sports sector. What sets SPSA apart is its global approach to youth sports, exemplified by its partnership with the NBA Basketball School Global Program. “We want to help kids stay healthy and active from a young age, offering a variety of sports activities to discover their passion,” Derrick explains. The academy also stands out as the only one in Switzerland that participates in the European Youth Basketball League (EYBL), giving young athletes an International competitive experience unlike any other.
Launching the NBA Basketball School in Lausanne came with its challenges, particularly in finding suitable facilities. However, Derrick’s persistence and resilient mindset ensured that obstacles were overcome. “You must continue no matter what until opportunity presents itself or you create it,” he advises.
”The Swiss Basketball Sport Academy has generated 1,054,064.16 CHF revenue in 2023 and has partnered with ERFISA, EHL Lausanne Zurich Bern, NBA Basketball School and DLang Training.
Derrick Lang
Owner / Executive Director
DLangTraining “Find The True Athlete In You
www.swissprepsportsacademy.ch
www.hybridmetaverse-x.com
Peggy Sefolosha
