Once Destined To Play At UM, DJ Russell Tries To Rebound With Sharks

A YouTube video from 2011 depicts DJ Russell’s dominance on the basketball court. The blue chip prospect towers over his opponents, blocking shots and dunking at will—all as a middle school student in Jacksonville, Florida.

By the eighth grade, the basketball phenom had verbally committed to play at the University Of Miami, according to several published reports. But something happened along the way—a problem with his high school transcripts didn’t allow Russell to attend UM.  

He decided to enroll at Miami Dade College to reestablish himself and earn another shot at a Division I scholarship.         

“I feel I can contribute as a scorer and bring energy to the floor and let it rub off my teammates,” Russell said.

Russell, 19, is expected to play significant minutes for the Sharks who lost 19 games last year. The 6-foot-7 inch big man can play all three front court positions and is expected to give MDC a defensive presence and help with rebounding.    

“DJ is an interesting prospect,” said head basketball coach Kevin Ledoux.  “I hope to have him contribute as soon as possible on the court.”

Russell’s skills are evident. During his senior year at Potters Christian Academy, he averaged 21.2 points  and 10.6 rebounds.

Basketball has always been his first love. Russell was introduced to the game by his dad, Dwayne Russell, inheriting his athleticism—the father played football in high school and in a semi-pro league.    

“He put the ball in my hand, showed me the basics of basketball and I just fell in love with the game,” the younger Russell said.

That passion is something Russell hopes to bring to MDC. The team will feature nine freshmen including four players who are at least  6-foot-7 inches tall.

“DJ pushes me to be a better player and makes the game easier for us to feed off his energy and skill,” said freshman guard Jahmal Abbey-Wright. “[He] is very aggressive on the boards, good all around, and a dominant force.”

Off the court, Russell, a business administration major, is a regular college student who plays video games such as NBA 2K and lifts weights.

After his collegiate basketball career is done, he dreams of playing in the National Basketball Association. But for now, he is content to help the Sharks have a successful season.     

“I want to stay healthy, win a lot of games and get to the championship,” Russell said.

The Miami Dade College men’s basketball team start their season at home at the Theodore R. Gibson Health Center, 11011 S.W. 104 St. on Nov. 2  at 5 p.m. versus Red Devils Academy.