Our Staff

Brent Benson

Founder / CEO

Brent Benson, our CEO and founder, is a distinguished alumnus of Texas State University. With a rich background as a former overseas basketball player and experience in the NBA G League, Brent brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our organization. As the head trainer for collegiate and professional athletes, he is dedicated to imparting his extensive skills and insights to foster their growth and success both on and off the court. Brent’s passion for helping youth and his role as a sports consultant guiding athletes toward successful futures are central to his mission. His desire to inspire and serve as a positive role model led to the creation of B3 Academy, a family-based environment that supports athletes from youth to professional levels, regardless of experience.

Kayla James

Director of Operations

Kayla James, our Director of Operations, is an accomplished trainer and coach specializing in developing young female athletes. With a patient and knowledgeable approach, she leverages her extensive experience coaching at the high school level and with our travel teams. A former player at Piedmont College, Kayla is adept at managing registration, client accounts, camps, and the day-to-day operations behind the scenes, ensuring everything runs smoothly. In addition to her coaching role, she is also an educator with experience working with special needs students.
Her commitment and multifaceted expertise make her an indispensable asset to our organization.

Brandon Smith

Youth Director / Skills Development Coach

Brandon Smith, a graduate of University of North Georgia, serves as our Youth Director/Skill Development Coach and Director of our Men’s ProAm. He played Varsity basketball at Mill Creek High School and also served as a basketball manager and practice player at the University of Georgia Southern. Brandon has coached and trained over 1000 student athletes and professionals at all levels. Brandon is highly knowledgeable and deeply committed to the growth and success of our athletes. Focusing on the details, training at game speed, and constantly improving basketball IQ are some of the main teaching points he emphasizes during his training sessions to help each player become 1% better every day. Basketball is his passion, but being able to build relationships and having the opportunity to mentor kids to help them achieve their goals in life is what he’s most grateful for. His expertise and dedication are crucial to the continuous development and excellence of our program.

Pat McCrary

Skills Development Coach

Patrick McCrary is a coach and trainer at B3 Academy with over a decade of experience developing athletes at all levels. A former multi-sport athlete at Madison County High School, he went on to play football at Savannah State University and basketball at Emmanuel University, giving him a well-rounded perspective on athletic development. Patrick has coached with B3 Academy and Top Notch Basketball Club, working with players from 4th grade through college and adult levels. His approach is influenced by PGC Basketball, focusing on teaching the game with purpose, detail, and clarity. He specializes in skill development, emphasizing defense, basketball IQ, confidence, and a disciplined “next play” mindset. Known for his energy and attention to detail, Patrick pushes athletes to compete at a high level while building habits that carry beyond the court. He’s committed to helping every player grow, improve, and move closer to their goals.

Byron Wilson

Skills Development Coach

Byron Wilson is an exceptionally seasoned varsity coach, currently serving as an assistant coach at Duluth High School. A graduate of Saint Augustine’s College, Byron brings a wealth of knowledge and attention to detail to the game. His coaching expertise is complemented by his success in guiding his sons to play at the collegiate level. In addition to his coaching role, Byron is a dedicated educator who serves our athletes both in the classroom and on the court, embodying the qualities of a servant leader. His commitment to developing well-rounded individuals makes him a vital asset to our program.

Derek Jackson

RN / Sports Medicine

Derek Jackson is a highly skilled Registered Nurse with an extensive background in sports medicine, specializing in injury prevention, rehabilitation, body mechanics, and movement. A graduate of Clayton State University, California University of Pennsylvania, and Chamberlain University, Derek brings a wealth of knowledge to our team. In addition to his expertise in sports medicine, Derek is an experienced cardiac nurse. He is also a certified AHA BLS/ACLS/PALS Instructor and Instructor Trainer, bringing a comprehensive understanding of life-saving techniques to our organization. Derek’s diverse medical background and dedication to athlete health and safety make him an invaluable asset to our team.