Bigger Than Basketball

There are moments in sports that go far beyond scores, stats, or highlights. For P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy Jamaica, one of those moments came recently when a new group of student-athletes and a coach were approved for their U.S. travel visas—clearing the way for them to represent Jamaica on the prestigious MADE Hoops Challenger Circuit.

Tyrich Brown, Romeo Smith, Thyrese Walker, Amari Lewis and Coach Trevor Lewinson

This May 16–18, the new visa holders will make their international debut at the Baltimore LIVE event in Maryland. For many, it will be their first time traveling overseas—an incredible opportunity to showcase their talents, compete at a high level, and take a big step toward their dreams.

But this milestone is about more than basketball. It’s about hope.

Breaking Barriers

In Jamaica, the U.S. visa process is a major hurdle. Many talented players and coaches are denied the chance to travel—not because of a lack of skill or potential, but due to systemic challenges. That’s why each approval feels like a small miracle.

“Every visa approval represents a life-changing opportunity,” said Wayne Dawkins, P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy Global Director. “Our program's strong reputation has helped many get through the process, but we never take it for granted. Each one means more families united, more doors opened, and more dreams within reach.”

Thanks to the Academy’s years of international travel and excellence on and off the court, the U.S. embassy has come to recognize the program's credibility—leading to a growing list of successful applications.

This round, however, marked a particularly special achievement.

A Father’s First Flight

Coach Trevor Lewinson, a dedicated and respected local coach, became the first Jamaican-based coach in P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy history to be approved for a U.S. visa. For him, it’s not just a personal win—it’s a breakthrough for all local Jamaican coaches striving to expand their experiences and impact through international exposure.

And it gets even better—Coach Lewinson will be making this trip alongside his 18-year-old son, Lebron Lewinson, a top P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy point guard and the #1 ranked Jamaican high school basketball player.

Lebron has been traveling consistently over the past year, representing Jamaica with pride and determination at top international events. But this will be the first time his father gets to coach and support him overseas.

Lebron and Trevor Lewinson

“To be on the sideline with my son, representing our country and our community—that’s a dream I’ve held onto for a long time,” said Coach Lewinson. “I’m beyond grateful to P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy for making it possible.”

Lebron added, “Having my dad with me on this trip means everything. He’s always believed in me, and now he gets to be there to see what we’ve been working toward together.”

A Ripple Effect

The Lewinsons’ story is a powerful example of why P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy’s mission is, and always has been, bigger than basketball. It’s about creating platforms for youth, empowering families, and uplifting entire communities.

“As we continue to grow and travel, we’re not just building basketball players—we’re building futures,” said Wayne Dawkins. “We’re helping young people see the world, chase their goals, and discover all that’s possible when someone believes in them.”

From Majestic Gardens to Montego Bay to Maryland, P.H.A.S.E. 1 Academy remains committed to opening doors—one visa, one game, one dream at a time.

Because this is bigger than basketball. This is legacy.