About Us
We believe in building opportunity and character through sport, education, and community. Our work is guided by purpose, integrity, and a commitment to serving youth.
A Dream Between Two Brothers
Our Mission & What We Believe
Our mission is to provide young people with the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to succeed in business and sports. envision a community where all youth have access to opportunity, mentorship, and pathways for long-term success.
- Access and opportunity should not be limited by circumstance
- Youth facing barriers thrive in positive, supportive environments
- Mentorship and strong relationships create lasting impact
- Accountability effort, and character matter on and off the court
Our Story
Turning Experience Into Opportunity for Youth
Founded in 2019 by two brothers, Dwight & Dmitri Thompson, Rise League was born from lived experience. Growing up, our founders recognized they did not have access to many of the resources available to some of the top players in Central Florida. While they were able to progress as athletes, they learned firsthand how greater exposure, guidance, and opportunity could have propelled them even further.
Along the way, they also came to understand the importance of education and business knowledge as essential tools—because athletic careers are never guaranteed, and too often young people are not encouraged to prepare for life beyond the spotlight. Seeing talented youth reach their peak too early due to limited access and lack of long-term planning, Rise League was created to provide the resources, education, and opportunities young people need to succeed both on and off the court.
07/07/95 - 05/12/24
In Loving Memory
Dmitri Thompson
Co-Founder
We honor the life and legacy of our co-founder, who tragically passed away on Mother’s Day in 2024. He was a selfless and compassionate spirit with a genuine passion for helping others and uplifting those around him. His talents stretched across many areas—including basketball, photography, marketing, and digital design—but it was his heart for people that truly defined him.
He deeply valued faith, family, and community, and believed that Rise League should be built on those same foundations. His vision helped shape our organization’s purpose and our guiding principle: “Rise Up, Take Courage, and Do It” (Ezra 10:4). We carry his spirit forward through our work, striving to serve youth with the same love, integrity, and courage that he lived by every day.
What Makes Rise
League Different?
Youth-First Development
A player-first and youth-first approach that prioritizes development over outcomes
Whole-Person Growth
A holistic model that combines athletics, education, and real-world exposure
Community-Based Impact
Co-Founders
Meet The Thompson Brothers
Founded by two brothers with a shared passion for youth development and community impact. Their combined experience in athletics, business, and mentorship shapes Rise League’s mission and direction.
Dwight Thompson
Co-Founder & Executive Director
Dwight Thompson is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Rise League, bringing over a decade of experience in youth development, basketball training, and leadership. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing with a minor in Sports Business Management from the University of Central Florida. A former state champion athlete and coach, Dwight won a basketball state championship as a player at Orlando Christian Prep and later coached multiple state championship teams. He has over 10 years of experience as a skill development basketball trainer and currently serves as the Owner and CEO of Thompson Management Group. Dwight is also an active mentor with the Heart of Florida United Way and the Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College Future Business Leaders Program, reflecting his commitment to education, mentorship, and community impact.
Dmitri Thompson
Co-Founder & Marketing Director
Dmitri Thompson is the Co-Founder and Marketing Director of Rise League, combining his background in athletics, business, and creative media to help guide the organization’s vision and outreach. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Business Management from Elon University, where he also played four years of Division I basketball. Dmitri won two basketball state championships as a player at Orlando Christian Prep before continuing his career professionally overseas in the FIBA EuroCup. With over 10 years of experience as a skill development basketball trainer, he also serves as the Owner and CEO of Rise Media Inc. Dmitri is a mentor with the Heart of Florida United Way and the Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College Future Business Leaders Program, using his experience to help prepare youth for success beyond sports.
Giving Back
Our Commitment to the Community
We are committed to building long-term relationships with youth and families by providing safe, positive spaces that encourage growth on and off the court. Our goal is to prepare young people not just for the next game, but for life beyond it.
Continuing the Mission
We’re proud to serve youth and families across Central Florida and remain committed to creating spaces where young people can grow, learn, and thrive.
