NBA Trainer Jerry Powell Leads Quality Athletes Academy Into Its First Season
Quality Athletes Academy (QA) is an academic and basketball development program in Freeport, on Long Island, serving student-athletes in grades 7 through 12 and postgraduates. QA pairs a hybrid academic model with individualized athletic training and practical preparation for life after basketball, including weekly seminars in financial literacy, personal branding, public speaking and nutrition. Its small learning environment is built on personal attention, accountability and strong relationships. The training facility includes basketball courts, a weight room and a dedicated agility area for strength, conditioning and athletic development.
QA enters its inaugural season with a demanding schedule against established prep programs, including Region 6 conference play. Head coach Jerry Powell, founder of the North Babylon training academy Basketball Results, brings more than 30 years of player-development experience, including work with NBA players such as Paul George, Rajon Rondo and Kyle Kuzma. Powell and his staff focus on sharpening each player’s individual skills, addressing areas for growth and preparing athletes for college opportunities.
The inaugural roster includes several college prospects, some key prospects to watch are profiled below.
Jeremy Gonzalez (2027) 5’10 guard – A quick, fearless guard, Gonzalez uses a tight handle to break down defenders and create scoring chances. He’s effective in the midrange and attacks the basket with confidence, using quickness and athleticism to finish against bigger opponents. Defensively, he pressures the ball full court and makes opposing guards work to initiate their offense. His leadership and competitiveness should be central to QA’s first season.
Kator Taakper (2028) 6’5 small forward – An explosive athlete with a vertical leap of more than 40 inches, Taakper pairs above-the-rim finishing with a soft shooting touch from the perimeter. On defense, his athleticism and timing make him an effective shot blocker; he averaged two blocks per game last season. A scholarship-level prospect, he is drawing interest from D1 and D2 programs.
Morell Toney (2029) 6’5 guard – A versatile scoring guard, Toney already holds five D1 offers. His size, athleticism and ball skills let him create advantages at multiple positions: he can attack the rim, create his own shot and stretch defenses with his perimeter shooting. He’s also a capable playmaker who uses his vision to set up teammates. Defensively, his length lets him guard multiple positions. He averaged 14 points and four assists per game last season. Plays club ball with Rens United. 3.4 gpa
Jamil Carter (2030) 6’2 point guard – A promising young New York City guard, Carter combines scoring ability with an advanced feel for the game. He is averaging 20 points, four assists and four rebounds per game as a freshman. Crafty off the dribble, he gets into the paint, stops on a dime for pull-up jumpers and has the athleticism to finish above the rim. His awareness of defensive rotations helps him create for teammates. Already drawing D1 interest, Carter has considerable long-term upside. Plays club ball with the NY Rens. Video highlights
Click here for the team’s 2026-27 schedule and results.