FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Digital Pioneers Academy Welcomes Three Championship-Caliber Basketball Coaches
June 7, 2025, Washington, D.C. — Digital Pioneers Academy is proud to announce the addition of three powerhouse leaders to its athletics program, strengthening its mission to develop scholar-athletes on and off the court. Lawrence Moten joins as General Manager of Basketball Operations and Youth Development, Gary “Toto” Johnson as Head Coach of Boys Basketball, and Lonnie Harrell as Head Coach of Girls Basketball – bringing experience, deep community ties, and a shared commitment to excellence.
Digital Pioneers Academy is a college-preparatory public charter school serving students in grades 6–12 in Southeast Washington, DC. The school empowers scholars to develop the academic foundation and character development needed to succeed as active citizens and innovators in the digital economy. In June 2025, Digital Pioneers Academy will proudly graduate its first class of seniors, 97 percent of whom have earned acceptance to a four-year college.
“At Digital Pioneers Academy, our mission is to develop the next generation of innovators—young leaders who excel academically and embody the character to thrive in college and 21st-century careers. Welcoming Lawrence Moten, Gary Johnson, and Lonnie Harrell to our team strengthens that mission,” explains Mashea Ashton, CEO of Digital Pioneers Academy. These leaders bring championship experience, strong community relations, and a proven commitment to mentoring youth. Their presence will elevate our basketball program and inspire our scholars to lead with discipline, integrity, and purpose – on and off the court.”
These three distinguished leaders bring decades of excellence in professional basketball, youth mentorship, education, and championship coaching:
- Lawrence Moten, General Manager, Basketball Operations and Youth Development — A former NBA player and Syracuse University’s all-time leading scorer, Moten brings deep expertise in player development and student mentorship. A second-round draft pick by the Vancouver Grizzlies, Moten later played for the Washington Wizards and in top leagues across Europe, Latin America, and Canada. Moten has spent the past decade helping at-risk youth thrive through sports, education, and community impact.
- Gary “Toto” Johnson, Head Coach, Boys’ Basketball – A seasoned educator and award-winning coach, Johnson is known for leading multiple D.C. school teams to championships. A former professional point guard, Johnson has served as a Career Technical Manager and adjunct professor, shaping youth through rigorous academics and elite athletics. Johnson holds a Master’s in Education and Human Development from George Washington University and a B.A. in Social Science from the University of Southern California.
- Lonnie Harrell, Head Coach, Women’s Basketball – A D.C. legend and AND1 Mixtape Tour icon, Harrell has inspired youth for over two decades through programs like Team Prime and 1st Class Sports Academy. A D.C. native and streetball legend from the AND1 Mixtape Tour, Harrell played for Georgetown and Northeastern before joining NBA and international teams. With over 100 college scholarship athletes mentored, his commitment to excellence, equity, and empowerment is unmatched.
“At Digital Pioneers Academy, our mission is to develop the next generation of innovators—students who excel academically and lead with character,” said Rob Harris, Athletic Director at Digital Pioneers Academy. “Welcoming Lawrence, Gary, and Lonnie perfectly aligns with that vision. Their championship experience, deep community ties, and dedication to mentoring youth will elevate our basketball program and inspire our scholars to lead with discipline, integrity, and purpose—on and off the court.”
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About Digital Pioneers Academy
Digital Pioneers Academy is a public charter school founded in 2018, serving students in grades 6-12 in Southeast Washington, D.C. With a focus on computer science and critical thinking, DPA empowers students to become the next generation of innovators and leaders. The school fosters a welcoming, nurturing environment that challenges students to reach their full potential.
