Jaylon Gibson – Basketball Coach & Instructor
Hi! I’m Jaylon Gibson, a former collegiate basketball player from , with experience competing at the Power Five, Division I, and Division II levels. Basketball has been a major part of my life for over a decade, and I love helping young athletes grow in skill, confidence, and love for the game.
Standing 6’10” and playing primarily in the frontcourt, I was a 3-star high school prospect, ranked among the top players in North Carolina. I attended Grace Christian School, where I averaged 16 points and 11 rebounds per game as a senior, leading my team to the state playoffs. I also competed on the AAU circuit with UC27 Carolina DreamChasers and Team Wall Elite, gaining experience against high-level competition nationwide.
At the collegiate level, I began my career at NC State, competing in the ACC and learning the daily habits, discipline, and preparation required at the highest level of college basketball. I later transferred to Winston-Salem State University, where I had a breakout season and was named to the All-CIAA Frontcourt Team and All-CIAA Tournament Team. That year, I ranked top-10 in the CIAA in both scoring and rebounding, earned multiple CIAA Player of the Week and Defensive Player of the Week honors, and helped my team compete at a championship level.
I also spent time at UNC Greensboro and Charleston Southern, where I continued developing as a player and teammate. At Charleston Southern, I recorded a 17-point, 10-rebound double-double before a season-ending injury. That experience strengthened my understanding of resilience, recovery, and mental toughness lessons I now pass on to the athletes I coach.
My Coaching Style
My coaching style is positive, structured, and encouraging, while still holding athletes to a high standard. I believe players learn best when they feel supported, challenged, and confident. I focus on teaching the why behind skills, not just the motions, so athletes can apply what they learn directly to games.
I emphasize:
- Strong fundamentals (footwork, balance, shooting form, defensive positioning)
- Basketball IQ (spacing, decision-making, reading the game)
- Confidence and effort (playing hard, staying coachable, learning from mistakes)
- Game-ready skills that translate to real competition
Because I’ve played at multiple collegiate levels, I’m able to tailor instruction to each athlete’s experience level and explain how skills progress as competition increases.
Lesson Format & What to Expect
Each session is organized, engaging, and age-appropriate, typically including:
- Dynamic warm-up and movement prep
- Skill development (ball handling, shooting, finishing, defense)
- Position-specific instruction (especially helpful for post players and wings)
- Game-like drills and competitive reps
- Positive feedback and teaching moments
I also can give advice on what to look for when seeking to play for a good basketball program at any level.
I work with athletes of all skill levels, from beginners learning the basics to more advanced players preparing for middle school or high school competition and seeking college scholarships. My goal is for every athlete to leave sessions better than they arrived more confident, more skilled, and excited to keep improving.
Why I Coach
Basketball has given me incredible opportunities and lifelong lessons. Coaching allows me to give back by investing in the next generation of athletes. I care deeply about player development not just as basketball players, but as young people learning discipline, teamwork, and confidence.
If you’re looking for a coach who brings high-level playing experience, intentional teaching, and genuine care for each athlete, I’d love to work with you!