Name:
Lawrence Washington
Position:
Basketball Program Director
Tell us about your background in basketball.
I’m a proud Pittsburgh native who grew up in the tight-knit town of West Mifflin, PA, a place that shaped my values, work ethic, and passion for the game. I was honored to be inducted into the West Mifflin High School Hall of Fame for basketball and had the privilege of playing in the prestigious Dapper Dan Roundball Classic, at the time, one of the top nationally recognized high school all-star games in the country, featuring elite talent from coast to coast.
I continued my playing career as a scholarship athlete at both West Liberty State University and Waynesburg University. I coached four years at the college level, with two years in NCAA Division III at Waynesburg University and two years in NCAA Division II at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. I’ve coached high school boys’ and girls’ basketball in the state of Pennsylvania, for more than 15 years and launched my own AAU program, developing players across multiple age levels.
In addition to youth and school programs, I’ve worked as a basketball trainer, helping athletes improve skill development, confidence, and game performance. I’ve also organized and run adult basketball leagues in both Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Southeastern Connecticut.
I’ve truly been in every seat, player, coach, trainer, and program builder, and I bring that full-circle perspective into every gym I step into.
What do you enjoy most about playing/working in basketball?
Basketball has always been more than a game to me, it’s a tool to teach life lessons, build relationships, and help young people grow into confident, disciplined individuals. I love the energy of the gym, the strategy of the game, and the opportunity to develop athletes on and off the court.
Who are your favorite players and why?
LeBron James is my favorite player because he represents the total package, leadership, versatility, IQ, and longevity. He’s not only one of the most gifted athletes to ever play the game, but also one of the smartest. He sees the floor like a point guard, scores like a power forward, and defends multiple positions.
What really sets him apart for me is how he consistently elevates everyone around him. He’s unselfish, strategic, and team-first — and he’s done it for over 20 years, under the highest level of pressure. His ability to adapt, stay locked in mentally, and carry teams on and off the court is rare.
On top of that, he’s a role model in how he handles himself off the court, as a businessman, father, and leader in the community. That combination of greatness, durability, and leadership is why LeBron stands out to me.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from basketball?
That success comes from consistency and accountability. Basketball teaches you how to fail, adjust, and keep going until win or have success. You can’t cheat the work; the habits you build in practice show up in the game and in life.
Why Oakwood? Why this position?
Oakwood Sports Center is about community, development, and doing things the right way. I wanted to be a part of something that aligned with my values, where we can build strong players, strong teams, and a strong culture. This position allows me to mentor coaches, guide young athletes, and develop and lead a premier program that’s bigger than basketball.
What’s your coaching philosophy, and how do you build a positive team environment?
My philosophy is simple: high standards, high support. I expect effort, accountability, and respect, and in return, I give structure, trust, and consistent guidance. I build team environments around communication, competition, and character. Everyone has a role and a responsibility.
Contact me at:
Email – lwashington@oakwoodsportscenter.org
Call – 860-633-0665
40 Oakwood Drive Glastonbury, CT 06033 860-633-3689
